As many African-Americans, I have a family history of colon and prostate cancer on both sides of my family. Fortunately, the males (of my parents' generation) had early detection due to frequent testing. This early detection was crucial to their survival rate. With this knowledge, I conveyed my family history to my doctor and we will begin my annual screening at age 46. My recommendations are:
- Know you family history (share information with your physician).
- Annual screening at age 50 with no family history of cancer.
- Early screening (mid-40's) with a family history of cancer.
- Maintain a high fiber low fat diet.
- Implement and follow an exercise program.
Disclaimer - I am not a doctor nor a medical expert. I am a concerned person trying to increase awareness. You should get regular medical check ups and ask your physician for expert opinion. Additionally, visit the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org.
COLON CANCER: Colon cancer is a cancer of the digestive organs. This cancer starts in the large intestines or the rectum (end of the colon). In these areas, polyps or tumors often develop and need to be removed. Although most of the polyps are benign (non-cancerous), these tumors can become malignant (cancerous) and result in colorectal cancer. When screening detects polyps, doctors will remove these tumors so they do not develop into cancer. Untreated colorectal cancer will fatally spread to other tissues and organs of the body. Once again, early detection leads (in most cases) to successful treatment; or the other hand, there is no cure for cancer that has spread throughout the body.
Symptoms include (sometimes cancer can be present for years before symptoms manifest, hence, experts recommend annual testing):
- Fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath
- Change in bowel habits, narrow stools, diarrhea or constipation, red or dark blood in stool
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Abdominal pain, cramps, or bloating.
PROSTATE CANCER: The prostate is a gland - a reproductive gland only found in males - that is right under the bladder. Hence, prostate cancer can only occur in males. Prostate cancer occurs when the cells in this gland begin to mutate and grow out of control. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in males and kills more men than lung cancer.
Once again, early detection in the form of a blood test (PSA or prostate specific antigen) will dramatically increase survival rates. As men age, the risk of prostate cancer - which can slowly spread - increases. In fact, many studies indicate that many elderly males that die of other diseases also had a slowly spreading prostate condition.
Symptoms include (early prostate cancer usually causes no symptoms):
- Frequent urination (especially at night).
- Blood in the urine.
- Difficulty starting and maintaining a steady urine stream.
- Painful urination.
- Male sexual problems.
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