How to prevent colon cancer

by Irvine Syazyombo

When cell growth is normal, that is fine. But if it goes out of control, that is cancer. When this uncontrolled growth  begins with cells in the large,intestine that is colon cancer.

According to some science journals, most colon cancer originates from small noncancerous tumors that form on the inner walls of the large intestine.

Journals say some of the small tumors may grow into malignant colon cancer if they are not removed medically and that colon cancer  causes more complications by invading health tissue near the tumor.

“After malignant tumors form, the cancerous cells may travel through the blood and lymph systems, spreading to other parts of the body,” says one journal.

Reliable science journals also say Colon cancer , like any other cancer, is also caused by damage to the genes involved in cell division.

“Cancer occurs when a cell's gene mutations make the cell unable to correct DNA damage and unable to commit suicide,” says the journal.

However,doctors say there are ways in which one can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.

“Medical experts don’t agree on the role of diet in preventing colorectal cancer, but often recommend a diet low in animal fats and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to reduce the risk of other chronic diseases, such as coronary artery disease and diabetes. This diet also may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer,” says another journal.

The journal says researchers have been examining the role of Aspirin, calcium, vitamin D, selenium and other medicines in preventing colorectal cancer.

It says some studies suggest that people may reduce their risk of developing colorectal cancer by increasing physical activity, limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding tobacco.

“The most effective way to reduce your risk of colorectal cancer is by having regular colorectal cancer screening from age 50,” the journal further says.

Risks of colon cancer could be reduced. It is up to each individual to be concerned and prevent the disease.

The silent killer

 by Irvine Syazyombo

Some diseases like malaria have signs and symptoms which health personnel notice  as soon as a patient reaches hospital.

However , high blood pressure is different. Initially you do not have any symptoms and with time it kills you.

“Many people assume you will get a headache or some other kind of signal when blood pressure is high. Unfortunately, this is rarely the case. Often, the first sign of unknown or untreated high blood pressure is a stroke, a heart attack, or kidney disease,” Kathy Berra  , clinical director of the Stanford Heart Network at Stanford University School of Medicine told Bewell, a Stanford University online journal.

She says serious complications leading to stroke cause permanent and significant disability.

Doctors say it kills through stroke, heart disease, damaging of blood vessels, kidneys and other organs.

“For a variety of reasons, your blood may begin to push too hard against the blood vessels. This is high blood pressure,” says health online journal, WebMD.

According to Bewell the disease does not only increase with age but also affects all ages regardless of sex, ethnicity or race.

WebMD also says avoiding overeating and having nutritious food low in fat, salt and sugar  prevents high blood pressure.

The journal also advises people to limit salt and alcohol intake, as well as avoiding smoking altogether.

“Don’t smoke tobacco and minimize your exposure to second hand smoke,” the journal says.

The journal counsels people to exercise regularly and avoid stress build up.

“The chemicals your body makes in response to stress make your heart beat harder and faster and your blood vessels tighten. All this makes blood pressure higher,” Miss Barre explains.

Doctors call high blood pressure a silent killer. To avoid being a victim, it is advisable to have blood pressure regularly measured.