Colon Cancer: Three Cancer Attacks and He Became Cancer-free After Herbs

After years battling with cancer, Yap was declared cancer-free on 5 August 1994. I had the privilege to meet with Yap on 18 March 1999. You can view our conversation in the video section of our website: http://www.cacare.com. The following are excerpts of what Yap said.

I had three cancer attacks. One was in the colon, 15 years ago. The second one was at the rectum 10 years after my first. As a result I had to wear a colostomy bag throughout my life. And then came the third cancer attack -- behind the prostate gland. Immediately after my second chemotherapy, the cancer came back again. The doctor told me he could not do anything; he could not give me radiotherapy because the cancer was just behind the prostate gland. Also, after three operations he could not operate on me again. He could only give me chemotherapy.

I wondered and ask the doctor, "I have just finished my chemotherapy and you are asking me to take another dosage of chemotherapy. It means that the cancer cells could not be bothered with the chemotherapy?" The doctor agreed. So I went back home refusing, of course, to take the chemotherapy.

I was contemplating how to die with dignity. Cancer patients always die miserably, in pain all over the body. Also, sometimes even morphine cannot reduce the pain. In my case, I know that chemotherapy did not help especially after my second attack.

Question: You have been battling with cancer for so many years. What did your doctor say? Do you have any other avenues?

I almost gave up hope. My doctor could only give me chemotherapy again which he agreed would not have any effect on me. Knowing this, I turned to the rodent tuber, initially, not because I believe in it. In fact, my first impression was it was very repulsive. Fortunately, my wife believes in it and she would cling to any straw. I became even more sceptical after learning that it is only a plant. This friend of mine who gave me the rodent tuber, had lung cancer himself. His doctor found him to be inoperable because the cancer had spread to every part of the lung. So, they stitched him back without doing anything. He was supposed to have died after four months. He did not die.

Instead he was recommending the rodent tuber to me. He gave me the rodent tuber himself, and my wife believed in it. Since there is nothing to lose, I just drank the juice. It was not tasty. When I took the rodent tuber, somehow the cancer pain I had disappeared almost immediately. I was thinking if I were to take it everyday, I could die with dignity.

I took the rodent tuber quite reluctantly in the beginning ... until two weeks later -- I realized it had some scientific basis. I decided I had nothing to lose except to try. I went back to my doctor and ask for chemotherapy and together took the rodent tuber -- this is more as a revenge trying to kill the cancer cells before I was killed by them! And after that somehow, the cancer never appeared again.

In the beginning, I took the rodent tuber juice three times at 50 grams per day. Then, I could not even lift the "pounder". At that time, I was half my present size. My weight was about 90 pounds. Now, I am 155 pounds. I always insist and I always tell everybody: what have we got to lose?

Question: People are sceptical about this. When you take the rodent tuber, it may interfere with the chemotherapy. You said that you were taking rodent tuber at the same time you were on chemotherapy. Did that interfere with your treatment?

I took both together. At that time I could not be bothered whether it would interfere with the chemotherapy or not. Chemotherapy alone was not effective. What else could I do to keep myself alive?

Question: When you finished with the chemotherapy, did you continue with the rodent tuber?

Oh, yes. From medical perspectives -- after the surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy -- there is practically nothing else for the cancer patient. If the cancer still exists, that means we are waiting to die.

At least now, we have this rodent tuber which is relatively not so poisonous. I have been taking this for two to three years. I took the juice three times a day for a few months. After that I reduced it to twice a day -- .taking it very religiously for eight and half months. Then I went for a medical check-up and fortunately, the cancer had disappeared.

The doctor was obviously very pleased about it. I went to Australia for another medical examination -reconfirmation -- and the doctor in Australia confirmed that I was free of cancer.

After one and a half years of close combat, I was declared cancer-free on 5 August 1994. Everything was worth it. I share my victory with you.

Cancer is normally regarded not only as a disease but also as a death sentence. How can we cling on any hope when everything seems hopeless? Many people, when faced with such an agonizing experience, usually give up. They find it pointless to continue living. A quick death is more merciful. I refused to accept defeat. Life was too precious to be destroyed by the enemy within. I had to fight cancer physically, emotionally and psychologically. And I won.

Note: As of this writing Yap is still active and healthy, living a cancer-free life.

Extracted from the author's book: Cancer Yet They Live!

Check it Out - Colon-Rectal-Cancer

The colon rectal cancer is many a times referred to as the colorectal cancer or either the large bowel cancer. It is mainly ascribed to the retard growth of the cancerous cells in the colon or the rectum and is the third most common sub category of this particular disease that claims the second highest number of fatalities in the West.

A frequent cause is believed to be the presence of the adenomatous polyps in the rectum or the colon. Although largely benign; it displays a strong risk of development into cancer over the passage of time, with multiplication in risks with an increase in age. Patients who have a family account of a disease of this genre are more exposed to this menace.

Based on extensive research its symptoms can be classified into two chief categories namely , the constitutional symptoms and the metastatic symptoms. albeit the commencement of this disease is accompanied by vague symptoms such as weight loss and exhaustion; which might not develop fully until the cancer has progressed into its later stages. Nevertheless other symptoms involve change in bowel activities and the appearance of the stool that is accompanied not only by rectal bleeding and abdominal and bowel pain. The later stages might reveal a smelly discharge.

If this genre of cancer is feared a pathologist should be consulted at the earliest for timely diagnosis and medical treatment. Post diagnosis, respective treatment is metted out to the patient, which may range from surgery and chemotherapy to radiotherapy. Corresponding blood tests and rectal examinations follow. Since this disease might take several years for development a timely detection increases the opportunities for cure. In spite of this once diagnosed and treated the chances of a relapse are greater amongst individuals once given treatment.

Bowel Cancer - Risk Factors - Part 2

In my last article I talked about some of the risk factors for bowel cancer and indeed, for other types of cancer as well.

The main risk factor is age.

- 83% of people who get bowel cancer are over the age of 60 yrs.

- Poor diet.

- Lack of exercise.

- Smoking.

- Being over the age of 50. (risk increases with age)

- You have a family history of bowel cancer.

- If you have ever had Crohn's disease or Ulcerative colitis.

- If you have previously had polyps called Adenomas in your bowel.

- Alcohol consumption.

- Obesity.

We've covered the first three, let's now look at the remaining ones:

Smoking. Highly addictive, this being the reason why even the most intelligent people do it despite the adverse publicity it receives. Along with excessive use of alcohol, smoking would have to be the biggest, legally self inflicted, threat to anyone's health known to humankind. You may not get cancer because you smoke, however new research shows it increases your risk level significantly.

Risk increases with age. We've talked about that in my previous article. Just be aware, the older you are the higher the risk factor.

A family history of bowel cancer can be a risk factor under some of the following circumstances.

A close family relative is a father, mother, brother or sister and are sometimes referred to as first degree relatives.

- If you have one relative with this disease on one or both sides of the family it increase your risk.

- If you have one elderly relative (over 60yrs) who develops bowel cancer this is not significant.

- There is a risk that parents can pass on faulty genes that would make the child at high risk. This usually happens when two people from the same side of the family have bowel cancer.

- In another scenario, the risk is increased if one close family member develops bowel cancer below the age of 45yrs of if there is a separate case of bowel cancer and womb cancer on the same side of the family.

- About 75% to 80% of bowel cancer patients do not have relatives with this disease.

If you have had or have Crohn's disease or Ulcerative colitis there is a greater risk of developing bowel cancer. The reasons are not entirely clear but the information is. If you have either of these two conditions you should be screened regularly.

What is Crohn's disease?

- It's an inflammatory disease of the digestive system which may affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract from the mouth to the anus. The precise cause is unknown.

What is Ulcerative Colitis?

- Ulcerative colitis is a disease that causes inflammation and sores in the lining of the rectum and colon. These are referred to as ulcers. Ulcers form where inflammation has killed the cells that usually line the colon As a result, the ulcers bleed and produce pus. Inflammation in the colon also causes the colon to empty frequently, causing diarrhoea.

What is an Adenoma?

- They are a collection of growths and can grow from many different organs.

- They are benign, though over time can become malignant if not removed.

- Even though they are benign, they can cause serious problems by compressing tissue around the local area and producing hormones in an unregulated manner.

If you are diagnosed with the above, get the best medical advice possible regarding treatment and an ongoing regime of regular checkups.

Alcohol consumption.

Excessive alcohol consumption is regarded as a significant contributing cause of bowel cancer. It is recommended that no more than two standard drinks for males and one for females be consumed in any one day.

Obesity.

Obesity has been linked to bowel cancer. It has also been found that people who are obese are less likely to get an accurate diagnosis with a colonoscopy due to the increased difficulty in cleaning out the bowel sufficiently for a clear picture. In this case some polyps may be overlooked.

It is also worth noting that people with diabetes have a higher risk of developing bowel cancer due to their condition. It's not known why at this stage.

Natural Health - The Cough and the Colon

There are so many different reasons for coughing - such as allergens, colds, flu or other infections, and in severe cases tumors in the lung or cancer.

There are also varying characteristics to coughs such as tight and dry, or loose and productive. Sometimes the types of coughs will give an indication of the problem, but unless one has good diagnostic testing the true underlying problem may be a mystery.

An area of the body that can contribute to coughing that is often overlooked, and rarely tested for complaints of coughing, is the colon.

When someone's colon is sluggish or difficult to empty, such as in constipation, or if they have a problem with candida (which is an overgrowth of yeast due to an imbalance of bacteria in the gut) then the body can often respond with a cough.

It helps to understand how this works by understanding that one of the functions of the respiratory system is elimination. When the primary eliminatory organs are not working at their optimum (ie - colon), then the other elimination organs kick in to help (ie - skin, lungs).

As a former colon therapist I can recall the many clients that I had who were receiving colon hydrotherapy and experienced great improvements in their breathing, sinus problems, and coughing.

Another helpful tip for understanding this connection is that in Chinese Medicine the Lung and Large Intestine share the same meridian. So, it is often seen in that health model, a clearing up in one of those organs when the other is balanced out.

Here are some "Simple Solutions" that you can do at home for your coughs (along with addressing your colon if you think that could be a contributing factor):

Home Made Cough Syrups (three recipes)

Recipe One

--Lemon juice or a small amount of water with drop of lemon oil

--honey

--tiny dash of cayenne

Recipe Two

--1/2 c. honey

--1 tbsp. chopped garlic

--1 tsp. horseradish (fresh prepared)

Mix well. Take 1 or 2 teaspoons as needed. If mixture is too hot,

add more honey to taste.

Recipe Three

--1 c. molasses

--2 drops ginger essential oil

--2 drops peppermint essential oil

Mix all ingredients together.

Use 1 teaspoon at a time, every 4 hours.

Dry Cough Tea

--2 drops lemon

--3 drops eucalyptus radiata

--1 tsp agave

--4 oz. hot water

Sip Slowly

(Some of these might help address your colon too!)

Stopping the Spread of Colon Cancer - Hope in Treatment

Whenever you have been diagnosed with colon cancer your physician will wish to order various examinations and tests to check the degree or what they call the "stage" that it has progressed to. Naturally, as with any cancer, the earlier it's discovered the less problematic it will be to treat. Your medical prognosis will depend upon factors such as whether the cancer is in the lining interior of the colon, or has disseminated throughout the body and into additional organs.

Your doctor will additionally base your medical prognosis upon whether or not the cancer has caused a blockage in your intestines. Your physician will also wish to order assorted blood tests to check blood levels of a specific factor. This factor shows up in your bloodstream at distinguishable levels dependent on how far the cancer has progressed. So before advocating any type of treatment your physician will rely to a great extent on your generalized health, whether the cancer has recurred, and what degree the cancer has progressed to.

Staging is what physicians refer to when the examinations that are carried out to find out the degree that cancer has progressed to. You can anticipate the physician to perform a CAT scan, which has a look at the interior of the body by taking pictures and in a few cases they'll likewise inject a dye to see the interior organs more clearly. The doctor will in all probability also will like to perform a lymph node biopsy. This biopsy removes a few of the malignant cells and they are then viewed under a microscope. Additionally, expect a complete blood count (CBC) to be performed. This will give the physician a great deal of very important information regarding your white and red blood cells and platelets. It also shows to the doctor the levels of CEA that reside in your bloodstream. CEA is discharged into your bloodstream from malignant cells just as well as from normal cells, however, if higher amounts than normal of CEA are found, the doctor can arrive at additional conclusions supported by that information.

A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) will in all likelihood be performed so that all of the cancerous cells may be viewed. A chest x-ray perhaps will be done to see the organs and bones within the chest cavity. Surgery might likewise be scheduled to remove any neoplasms that may be present. These are each required tests that have to be performed so your doctor can fully realize the maturation of the colon cancer and address it to the fullest of his ability.

Metastatic Colon Cancer

Colon Cancer is one of the most deadly forms of cancer that is affecting close to 100,000 Americans every year. Many of these patients are diagnosed with a form of this cancer known as metastatic colon cancer. This means that the symptoms can only be diagnosed when the disease is in the advanced stages. This makes it difficult for doctors to treat it properly. Yet, there are patients that have been able to live for many years after the diagnosis.

Metastatic colon cancer means that the cancer cells have moved beyond the colon tissues and spread to other parts of the body. Doctors say that the first area to be infected is the lymphatic system. Once it reaches this part of the body the cancer cells will move to other organ cells of the lungs and liver. Other organs may also be infected.

Patients who have been diagnosed with colon cancer should know that there are several treatments available to them. They must consider all of their options and seek immediate treatment even if they have discovered the cancer in one if its earliest stages. Studies show that 20 to 30 percent of patients who are treated for metastatic colon cancer have the ability to survive for many years after they have been diagnosed. That chance to live longer is increased when you have treated it and keep it from reaching your liver and lungs.

The hardest thing for patients who have been diagnosed is that it is so difficult for doctors to diagnose when it is in its early stages. The disease usually becomes more evident and easier to find when it is more advanced and sometimes when treatment options can be useless. That is why it is important for people to do what they can to prevent this disease.

So how are we to prevent colon cancer? The first thing that you need to look at is the lifestyle that you have. Your risk for colon cancer increase if you smoke or have a bad diet. It is important to avoid fatty foods that can clog your arteries and stick mainly to foods that are nutritious and fibrous for your body.

Smoking is one of the biggest factors that is related to cancer so it should always be avoided - even second hand smoke. Your weight is also a large factor that is partly connected to your diet. People who are obese can have some of the worst symptoms of colon cancer.

It is important to begin screening for this disease when you reach the age of 50. You should then make regular visits every ten years after that unless your doctor says otherwise.

Main Symptoms of Cancer

Symptoms are the indications by the body that there is something wrong. These refer to the physical feelings undergone by the sick person. They may or may not be visible. The signs of an illness can be diagnosed by the doctor or the medical practitioner. Just one symptom cannot diagnose a particular disease but can lead to an investigation and help can be provided before the disease flairs up.

Cancer is a disease that can affect ant part of the body ranging from the glands, blood, bone, muscles, organs, and skin. It is basically an uncontrolled division of cells that cannot be regulated by the body. As an enemy within the body it ravages each cell while spreading its deadly tentacles, affecting healthy tissues and cells. The symptoms of cancer depend upon its origin and size of the tumor and its spread.

In some types of cancer the specific symptoms do not appear until it has reached an advanced stage. If the cancer has spread to other parts of the body then there may be a variety of symptoms. In brain cancer, if a tumor is formed the size of a speck also, there may be variety of symptoms as it may push against a nerve or a blood vessel that might be affecting a particular portion of the body.

As the cancerous tumor continues to grow, the intensity of the symptoms may increase manifolds because it may start pushing the adjoining organs and tissues leading to discomfort.

The specific symptoms may be localized to a certain extent depending upon the area of spread of cancer. Generally all cancers have some common symptoms and specific symptoms related to the affected area of the body. These symptoms are common to other diseases also and the medical practitioner can be misguided on the diagnosis of the disease. Sometimes symptoms are ignored because they seem insignificant and temporary. However the earlier cancer is diagnosed the better you have a chance of stopping it from spreading further.

Some symptoms may not be a sign of cancer but in any case they need medical attention. The general symptoms range from weakness, fever, weight loss to dizziness and backaches.

Fever is a common symptom of cancer as it shows that the body is fighting an infection. Persistent fever shows an advanced stage of cancer specially leukemia. Sudden weight loss of more than 15 pounds without any explanatory reasons can also be a sign of cancer related to stomach and lung or even the digestive system. Weakness and fatigue are also an indication of cancer due to weight loss and blood loss in some forms of cancers. Skin cancers produce symptoms like darkening and yellowing of skins.

While the localized and the particular cancer symptoms may differ as to the region they have affected. Any change in the normal functioning of the organ can be a reason for cancer check.

o Change in excretory system : constipation , piles , change in stool formation, passing of blood in stool or urine, pain during urination can all be symptoms of colon cancer , prostrate cancer and bladder cancer.

o Passing of blood: any unusual amount of blood that is passed while coughing, with urine, stool or major vaginal bleeding are not normal. They are signs of lung cancer, rectal, kidney, uterine cancers, and stomach cancer.

o Chronic Ulcers: Oral ulcers and sores that have not healed on the penis and inside the vagina may be cancerous.

o Formation of lumps: Any formation of lumps in the body whether in the skin, breast, testicals, glandular lumps that have grown in size show an early signs of cancer. Warts that have grown in size.

Even a minor symptom of any disease should not be ignored. Prevention is always better than cure.

Colon Cancer Treatments - The Three Most Common Procedures

If you have been diagnosed with colon cancer, then your next step is to think about treatment. Treatment options vary and will be determined by the stage of colon cancer and the location of the cancer. Your oncologist will be able to give you the best advice on which treatment option is right for you. This article is going to explain three of the most common treatments for colon cancer. Keep reading to gain a valuable education.

Surgery is a Standard Treatment for Colon Cancer

Surgery to remove all sections of the bowel that has been affected by cancer is a common treatment in all stages of colon cancer. There are three types of surgery that can be used to remove the cancer. They are:

1. 
   Local excision. This is reserved for cancer that is found in the early stages. The doctor will simply insert a tube into your rectum and advance it into the colon. He will then be able to cut away the cancerous part of the colon. If a polyp is involved, he can remove the polyp this way also. This is a fairly simple surgery and requires no incision.





2. 
   Resection. This is used if the cancer in the colon has become quite large. The surgeon will make an incision into the abdomen and remove part of the colon that is affected by the cancer. He will also remove small sections of healthy tissue that surrounds the diseased section of the bowel. Lymph nodes near the colon may be removed so they can be examined to determine if the cancer has spread. The surgeon will then sew the two healthy ends of the bowel together.





3. 
   Resection and colostomy. Depending on the what part of the colon is affected and how much of the colon is involved, the surgeon may be unable to sew the healthy ends back together. In that case, one end of the bowel will be brought through a hole that is made in the abdomen. This is called a stoma. The patient will then need to wear bag over the stoma because the waste is now being expelled through the stoma. This is called a colostomy. Many people are able to lead normal lives after a colostomy.

Radiation to Treat Colon Cancer

Radiation can be high energy x-rays or other forms of radiation that is used to kill off cancer cells or to keep them from growing. Radiation may be given externally or it may be given internally through needles, seeds or catheters that are placed near the cancer. The way radiation is used is determined by the location and the size of the cancer.

Chemotherapy Treatment for Colon Cancer

Chemotherapy drugs can be used to kill cancer cells or to stop them from spreading. Chemotherapy can be injected through the vein or ingested through the mouth in the form of pills. It can also be injected directly into the area that is affected by the cancer such as the abdomen or the spine.

All of these treatments may be used alone or in combination with each other. A lot of patients that have surgery to remove part of the diseased colon will have chemotherapy or radiation to kill of any traveling cancer cells.

Colon cancer can be cured if caught early enough and contained. Stay in tune to your body and get regular check ups.

Whilst every opportunity has been take to ensure that all information is correct and up to date at time of writing, it is not meant to be used to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please always consult your doctor or health care specialist if you are in any way concerned about your health.

Prostate and Colon Cancer: Secrets to Healing and Understanding

This article will tackle the cause of two pandemic forms of cancer, cancer of the prostate and colon cancer. Scientists have determined that prostate cancer is an epidemic so vast that nearly one autopsy in two of older men reveals the presence of this cancer. Fortunately, this cancer is usually so slow growing that most men die of other causes, even as the cancer grows slowly within the prostate gland. Yet deaths by prostate cancer and the debilitating effects of prostate surgery still affect thousands of families today. In addition, nonmalignant enlargement of the prostate afflicts millions of American men with such symptoms as painful and frequent urination. As a therapist who specializes in discovering the underlying causes of disease, I have discovered, once again, the reasons for this pandemic can be found in the cultural habits of our society.

First, let's ask the obvious question: what is the prostate's job in a healthy individual? Although prostate conditions including cancer usually show up as problems with urination, the prostate gland is mainly about sex. The prostate's job is to mix sperm with its own liquid secretions to produce semen, then through contractions associated with male orgasm, it propels this semen into the penis. When I have worked with men who have any prostrate condition I nearly always find that these men feel subconsciously frustrated and often guilty about their sexual behavior. Each case has unique elements. Therefore I will not claim that it is always one particular feeling or trauma. But my experience is that it always is about sex.

One client feels guilty about years of being unfaithful to his wives. Another feels remorse over years of visiting prostitutes, and having meaningless sex. Still another feels badly that he had sex with a wife he didn't really love. So far I have not met any man whose prostate is complaining because it didn't get enough sex. While I can't rule out this possibility, it seems that wasting of one's procreative life force is the issue which is locked into the prostates of most of my clients. (Incidentally, I always use open ended questions, and never use direct suggestion or leading questions in my work with cancer patients in order to minimize the influence of my own beliefs on the subconscious minds of my clients. In addition, when I began this research, I had no clue as to what might be found in the prostates of my clients)

This discovery of loose sexual behavior among the vast majority of my prostate clients is consistent with the "sexual revolution" of the 1970s, in which sex went from being a form of recreation reserved exclusively for married couples, at least theoretically, to becoming a free for all. The Playboy philosophy, birth control, and the hippie and women's lib movements combined to create unprecedented opportunities for men and women alike to spread their seeds to the four winds. While I too had the chance to celebrate and enjoy this new freedom, it is our prostate glands, concerned with such "obsolete" concepts as romantic love, families, and children that I have discovered are in rebellion among so many men today.

As a hypnotherapist it is my job to listen to this prostate gland in a way that the client has never done. Indeed most clients are shocked to discover this throwback to conservative values living inside their bodies. Sometimes tears of remorse, dedication to a new lifestyle, even acts of atonement performed for women can help heal this condition. At other times, committing oneself to seeking a loving partner, even to reaching out to ones lost or grown children has proved valuable. I really don't know what my client's prostate needs to heal itself ... but fortunately that prostate always does.

Another kind of cancer epidemic is colon cancer. Well, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out the why of this epidemic either. We know that the colon is the place where waste is produced, and the water we need is pulled out. I have occasionally found unprocessed waste emotions in the colon, including anger, of which the client is often in denial. One client of mine who suffered severe ulcerative colitis screamed at me in a purple faced rage "Damn it! I am NOT angry!!" when I attempted to point out, very politely, what I was feeling from him. Even residual traumas from toilet training can be found in there sometimes.

But the culturally common causes of colon cancer I have found is connected to the diet and lifestyle choices pursued by most Americans. All of these eating habits have been scientifically proven to have debilitating effects on the colon: large amounts of animal fat in the diet, too much melted cheese and white flour products, all of which stick like glue to the colon walls, where they rot and produce inflammation, too little vegetable fiber, including the raw roughage like lettuce and carrots that clean the colon like a bottle brush, and too little water. (okay, how many of you really drink the 8 glasses a day minimum recommended by doctors?) Also critically dangerous to the colon is our lifestyle choice of sitting for most of every day on our sedentary butts. Remember that as a species homo sapiens evolved to spend many hours every day in physical movement.

So any proposed solution to this epidemic requires a radical revision of our diet and lifestyle. Fortunately the services of a clinical nutritionist and hypnotherapist can be combined to make the transition to a healthy diet and lifestyle much easier. Hypnosis can help build motivation for exercise and can help strengthen our new dietary choices. It can also help uncover and heal the emotions that are stored in the colon. Combined with the latest in medical treatments, such methods offer far more promise for recovery than we could have hoped for 20 years ago.

Risk Factors in Bowel Cancer

Most of us flirt with the risk factors for bowel cancer. How many of us don't exercise enough; eat the wrong foods and have bad habits such as drinking and smoking that are not conducive to good health? How many of us are stressed in our high powered lifestyles and don't seem to have enough time to exercise or prepare healthy meals?

So what are the risk factors for bowel cancer and what can we do about them.

The main risk factor of bowel cancer is age.

* 83% of people who get bowel cancer are over the age of 60yrs.

* Poor diet.

* Lack of exercise.

* Smoking.

* Being over the age of 50. (risk increases with age)

* You have a family history of bowel cancer.

* If you have ever had Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.

* If you have previously had polyps called adenomas in your bowel.

So, if 83% of people who get bowel cancer are over the age of 60 years and I'm well under that, I'm safe, right? Not exactly, there's still17% left who get bowel cancer below that age and some in their 20's.

So what to do? For a start, if you are approaching 60years old, book yourself in for a colonoscopy. Who knows they may find nothing, on the other hand they may find something that can be dealt with before it gets serious. For those younger, be vigilant and look for any signs and symptoms that may manifest themselves.

Fortunately bowel cancer is fairly slow in developing; unfortunately it doesn't show symptoms until it's developed. Therefore, the earlier you go to the doctor, if any symptoms do occur, the better for your long term survival.

Poor diet, something a lot of us suffer from. Whether it be fast food for convenience sake or those yummy snacks we eat when we are probably not even hungry, it doesn't matter, they take their toll. For a start this type of food will probably be high in fat or processed to death. Take your pick, neither is good. Fresh vegetables and fruit are a good start on the road to good eating habits. Plenty of fibre and water to get the flow going is another plus on the road to good eating habits. There are plenty of books on the subject, go out and find them and educate yourself.

Lack of exercise, another pastime we often ignore, especially when we are asleep in front of the TV. You don't have to be a marathon runner to exercise. Walking is extremely good for you.10,000 steps a day is fantastic. Get yourself one of those step counters and clip it to your belt and see how much you walk in a single day. Some will be pleasantly surprised and some will be disappointed. The good thing is it's a simple way to define and reach your goal. Be good to yourself and use the stairs, walk the dog, walk to the shops and leave the car at home. Do any sort of walking to get your 10,000 steps and you are heading toward the healthy zone.

My next article will finish off the risk factors we started in this article.

Type 2 Diabetes - Is Colon Cancer More Common in Diabetics?

A study published in the Journal of Korean Medical Science in October 2011 should encourage people diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes to get colonoscopies.

Investigators at Samunsung Medical Center, Sugkyunkwan University School of Medicine in Seoul, Korea, looked at the records of 3,505 Type 2 diabetics who had colonoscopies for colon and rectal cancer from 1995 to 2009 and compared them with the records of 495 non-diabetic patients.

Eleven hundred and thirty-six polyps were recorded among 509 diabetic patients. Of the polyps found in the people with Type 2 diabetes:

• 8 per cent had the potential for becoming cancerous, compared to


• 6 per cent in the non-diabetic participants.

Fortunately, the use of metformin or aspirin did not increase the number of polyps seen. Males who were older than 65 years of age with Type 2 diabetes and a body mass index (BMI) of over 25 were at risk for having more than 3 polyps with cancerous potential.

Like all cancers, cancer of the colon is uncontrolled cell growth. Cancers can cause:

• bleeding,


• pressure on other tissues,


• obstruction, and can give off


• inappropriate hormones and other potentially deadly molecules.

Worldwide cancer caused 13 per cent of deaths in 2008. Colon and rectal cancer was one of the most common, accounting for 610,000 deaths. Deaths from cancer are expected to rise to 11 million worldwide in 2030.

Colon cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. Eating a high fiber diet and regular checkups can prevent its formation. When cancer is present, surgical removal can be curative if done early.

Signs and symptoms of colon cancer include:

• diarrhea,


• constipation,


• feeling of fullness after bowel movements,


• narrow stools,


• rectal bleeding,


• gas pains,


• bloating,


• abdominal cramps,


• weight loss without explanation,


• tiredness,


• anemia,


• nausea, and


• vomiting.

Colon polyps with the potential for becoming cancerous are called adenomatous. Polyps are removed when they are found and examined under a microscope to discover whether they are adenomatous.

For healthy people, screening colonoscopies are recommended at the age of 50 and every 7 to 10 years thereafter. If an adenomatous polyp is found and removed, the next colonoscopy should be performed in 5 years. If an adenomatous polyp is found and there is a family history of colon cancer, the patient should be rechecked in 3 years. (Colonoscopy can also reveal flat lesions called nonpolypoid colorectal neoplasms, which can also evolve into cancer).

Given the higher risk of adenomatous polyps in people with diabetes, should they be checked more often? Discuss the possibility with your doctor.

Colon Cancer Treatment - The Best Treatments For Colon Cancer

It seems like a lot more people are being diagnosed with colon cancer these days. Maybe it has to do with the population getting older, but there probably a lot of behavioural reasons as well. Another condition that seems to be on the rise is constipation, which over years can't be a good thing. If we're going to discuss the best treatments for colon cancer, we should probably go over the worst ones too.

Put up your hand if you've heard of these...chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. That's right. This means that the best treatments for colon cancer are, you guessed it, all natural ones.

Look at it logically for a moment. If you have colon cancer your goal is for it to go away and to restore your health. How in the world do you expect to accomplish that by pumping toxic chemicals into your bloodstream? Or by zapping your body with radiation? Or by cutting out portions of your colon and intestine? Those are there for a reason. And aren't we supposed to avoid radiation because it causes cancer? The whole system is upside down. Except for big drug companies who are making billions of dollars in profit by marketing these therapies. That topic can be for another time.

We're talking about all natural, non-toxic treatments that will reverse your colon cancer and restore you to good health. There are certain conditions where cancer thrives. Cancer loves low oxygen levels, and high acidity levels. It loves a chronically dehydrated body and weakened immune system. It loves toxins and free radicals. It loves sugar. And colon cancer in particular must really love the toxic mess left behind by years of constipation.

Your body wants to be in balance. If you can find natural treatments designed to reverse the conditions we just mentioned, you'll be well on your way to a cancer free colon. Don't leave it up to some doctor who has no choice but to push drugs and surgery. Explore the whole world of options. Your body deserves the best.

Misdiagnosis of Colon Cancer

A cancer affecting the large intestine is that of the colon.  The colon is positioned in the lower part of the digestive tract. Colon cancer is the third most common form in men and women.  There are more than 100,000 cases diagnosed every year.  Usually these start as benign cell growths.

Diagnosis and treatments that are detected early are important for an ideal outcome for any type of cancer.  It is unfortunate to say that this form is one the more commonly misdiagnosed.  If it is misdiagnosed, the patient can suffer severely, and it can even be deadly. 

Types of Misdiagnoses

Mistakes in diagnosis come in various forms, which consist of:

• Missed Diagnosis - When a doctor does not identify the signs and symptoms of colon cancer, or they fail to order the required tests


• Wrong Diagnosis - The symptoms of colon cancer are confused with another illness or colon cancer is diagnosed and the patient has no cancer at all


• Delayed Diagnosis - Symptoms of colon cancer are not identified, or diagnosing another condition and time goes by before realizing it is cancer

Treatments for patients may not be given because of a bad diagnosis.  Sometimes patients are treated for diseases that they do not have at all.  These mistakes can do severe damage to the patient and sometimes can prove to be deadly.

Misdiagnosed Patients and Their Rights

If a patient has suffered a wrong or missed diagnosis of colon cancer, they may be able to hold the negligent party responsible for their errors.  A malpractice lawsuit can help a patient recover losses for past and future medical costs, pain and suffering, lost wages and other related costs. 

If a family lost a loved one because of misdiagnosis of colon cancer, they too are allowed to seek out compensation.  Families can be compensated for funeral costs, loss of a loved one and other damages related to the death.

Talk to an Attorney Today

Filing a medical lawsuit is subject to a deadline.  These are known as statutes of limitations.  All malpractice cases have these strict deadlines.  Because of this, it is important to contact a professional attorney.  They are aware of these laws and they can protect your rights if it is determined that you have a claim.  These attorneys have many years of experience in malpractice cases.  Call today for a free evaluation and get your questions answer.

How Does Cancer Affect Cells?

Cancer is the name for a disease that can affect cells from all the organs and body's structures and is considered to be life threatening. Cancer determines cells to divide in an uncontrollable way. Generally the cells of the body divide only when needed, like when they grow old and other cells need to be produced in order to replace them or when they are in a small amount and the body needs more of them.

Because the cells are produced in an increased number, a mass of unknown tissue will form, known as a tumor (this tumor can be benign or malign).

The benign form of the tumor is considered not to be harmful. It can be easily removed and will not spread to other organs. The possibility for this tumor to reappear is much reduced.

The malign form of the tumor is also known as cancer and is considered to be a threat to life. It can affect organs that are situated near the tumor and it can also get into the bloodstream or lymphatic system and reach other organs creating new tumors in the whole body. This is known as metastasis. The secondary disease will be named after the primary disease, because the metastatic cancerous cells have the same structure with the basic tumor cells.

Taking colon cancer for an example, if the colon cancer cells spread toward the liver and affect it, the liver disease will be called metastatic colon cancer.

In the whole world, colon cancer is the third leading cause of cancer in males and the fourth in women. It is quite rare in Asia and Africa but you can find it frequently in the Western world. Those who have adopted western diets are at risk to develop colorectal cancer. Doctors believe that this type of cancer is developing from polyps situated in the large intestine (colon and rectum are a part of the large intestine). These polyps are considered to be benign but left untreated for years they can transform in malign tumors. The polyps can be removed easily during a colonoscopy performed by the doctor.

Colorectal cancer can affect nearby structures and can even get into the bloodstream or lymphatic system and spread towards liver and lungs where it will produce another tumor. If metastasis has occurred, the hope of treatment efficiency is considered to have reduced drastically.

Perspectives On Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is a major health concern and public health problem in

most of the Western countries despite widespread use of screening technique

to detect early stages of this disease. In the United States alone more than

148,000 people are diagnosed with colorectal cancer each year. Over 55,000

deaths occur in the United States due to colorectal cancer. Colon cancer is

a very common disease and it is the third most common type of cancer in both

sexes. In men it ranks third after prostate and lung cancer and in women

after lung and breast cancer. Colorectal cancer ranks second after lung

cancer in terms of number of deaths from cancer.

Majority of colorectal cancers (72%) start in the colon and smaller fraction

(28%) arises in the rectum. The lifetime risk of being diagnosed with

colorectal cancer in the United States is 5.9% for men and 5.5% for women.

There are several known risk factors for colorectal cancer. Being a male

poses higher risk of colorectal cancer compared to being female. Increasing

age is associated with an increase in the risk of colorectal cancer.

Incidence of colorectal cancer is higher among African Americans compared to

Caucasians. Risk of developing colorectal cancer is much higher for people

living in the industrialized nations compared to less industrialized

nations.

Diet, rich in fat and cholesterol, is linked to higher risk of developing

colorectal cancer. Lack of proper exercise, presence of inflammatory bowel

disease, some types of polyps and history of family members with diagnosis

of colorectal cancer have been associated with higher risk of development of

colorectal cancer.

Early stages of colorectal cancer may not cause any symptoms. Some people

might experience vague symptoms like mild abdominal pain, flatulence or

diarrhea. Occasionally there might be microscopic bleeding and the diagnosis

of colorectal cancer would be suspected because of presence of anemia from

chronic bleeding. Some people might develop frank bleeding or symptoms of

bowel obstruction.

Screening for colorectal cancer can detect the disease at an early stage. A

rectal examination and examination of the stool specimen for the presence of

microscopic quantity of blood are very common screening tools. Sigmoidocopy

and colonoscopy are more invasive investigations, which can detect and

remove some polyps that might be precursors of cancer. Less invasive

techniques like barium enema, virtual colonoscopy using a CT scan machine

are also often used in screening and diagnosis of colorectal cancer. Adults

having an average risk of colorectal cancer should start colorectal cancer

screening beginning at age 50.

Treatment of colorectal cancer depends upon the stage of the disease. Early

stages of colorectal cancers are treated with surgery alone, later stages of

colorectal cancer are treated with surgery followed by chemotherapy with or

without radiation treatment. Rectal cancers are more often treated with

radiation therapy compared to colon cancer. Advanced stages of colorectal

cancer, where the disease has spread to other organs, are usually treated

with chemotherapy alone. There are several new chemotherapeutic agents and

biological drugs available for the treatment of colorectal cancer. Treatment

of colorectal cancer has undergone marked changes in the last 10 years. The

newer drugs are showing much improved efficacy and prolonging life

expectancy in patients with advanced stage colorectal cancer.

Facts About Colon Cancer in Women

Contrary to the popular misconception, colon cancer is a common ailment that affects both men and women. Indeed, it is seen as the third most common reason for cancer deaths in women. Hence, women should never underestimate their ability to develop cancerous enlargements on the inner walls of their colons. This terrible fallacy of it being a 'man's disease' needs to be replaced with education on the risk factors for women, how they can curtail the occurrence of colon cancer, and the proper ways to receive screening and treatment, diminishing its impact.

What are the risk factors for women with regards to cancer of the colon? Well, it has been stated that as a woman increases in age, she is more likely to develop colon cancer as this hazard increases two fold every five years. This is not made better with the process of menopause or if colon cancer runs in the family.

Unfortunately, women with other types of cancers such as breast and uterine cancer, are also viable prospects for colorectal cancer. But when all is said and done, there are ways in which a woman can protect herself from developing colon cancer or in cases where it already exists, decrease its impact. These include receiving the proper screening, more formally known as a colonoscopy. This test detects the early signs and symptoms of colon cancer so that it can be treated. This is why it is important for women to not have a high fat or low fiber diet but one rich in fruits and vegetables, as it reduces these risks. Furthermore, hormone replacement therapy is a good method used with women who have gone through menopause to reduce the likelihood of colon cancer as well. All in all, regular exercise and daily supplements such as calcium should be taken, which has been proven to have reduced the risk of having a cancerous colon by 30-50% in women.

Finally, as the colonoscopy has been proven to be the best tool employed for early detection of cancer of the colon, women should know all about such a procedure. A colonoscopy gives doctors a clear view of the lining of the colon to identify any signs of growths or enlargements resulting in this cancer. This 15-30 minutes examination involves the insertion of a slender, supple scope with a camera and an illuminator into the anus. With a running cost of $500 to $1000, the patient is made to take a number of pills or to drink a lot of a special fluids to release the bowels beforehand so that when the individual is sedated and examined, a clear depiction of what is going on inside the colon can be obtained.

There is really nothing to be scared about while going through this process. You will normally be sedated and made as comfortable as possible while you are examined. Besides, it is all for a good cause, which is maintaining your health. Because colon cancer is becoming so common in women, it is better to be in the know than to be clueless until it is too late. Be proactive and get yourself tested today!

How Dangerous Is A Sigmoid Colon Polyp?

A sigmoid polyp is a mass of cells that grows in the sigmoid colon, which is the s-shaped section of the large intestine near the end of the digestive tract. A sigmoid polyp is a matter of some concern because it can - but doesn't always - become malignant. Therefore, it is described as being pre-cancerous.

Even though polyps don't always result in colon cancer, it's best to remove them if they're detected. This can be done during a colonoscopy. A colonoscopy is a surgical procedure in which a doctor examines the inside of the colon to make sure it's healthy. He or she will use a device known as a colonoscope during this examination. A colonoscope is a long flexible tube with a tiny video camera attached to the front, which enables the surgeon to look for signs of cancer in the walls and lining of the colon.

There are several types of sigmoid polyps. They are sometimes small and flat. These are called sedentary polyps. Or they can look more like a mushroom with a stalk, in which case they're known as pedunculated.

Some sigmoid polyps are tiny - as small as a pea. Other are huge and can become as large as a golf ball. Those that are smaller and mushroom-shaped become cancerous less often than those that are flat and large. Typically, the bigger the sigmoid polyp, the higher the chance that it will become malignant.

The major risk factors for sigmoid polyps include

• Aging - they appear much more often after age 50


• Obesity


• Tobacco use


• Eating a lot of low fiber, high fat foods


• Heredity - you're more likely to have a sigmoid polyp if there are others in your family who have also had them

Small colon polyps don't present symptoms. This is why it's important to have colon cancer screenings as recommended by your doctor. It's very important to have these screenings after age 50, but your doctor may recommend them sooner if you're at higher risk.

Large colon polyps may present symptoms like

• Rectal bleeding or blood in stools


• Stools may become noticeably more narrow


• Bowel difficulties like diarrhea and constipation, or pain during bowl movements

Sigmoid polyps that are discovered early can generally be removed safely and completely. The first step is to find out if a mass is malignant or not. Your doctor can take a sample during a colonoscopy and have it analyzed.

There is no sure method of preventing sigmoid polyps from developing. You can certainly lower your risk, however, with lifestyle changes and regular screenings.

Getting some exercise and eating healthier food (especially high fiber types) definitely help. Be sure you get enough calcium because it helps protect you against cancer. Broccoli, kale and canned salmon are good calcium sources. Vitamin D also appears to help reduce your risk.

If you smoke, stop. If you consume a lot of alcohol, cut back.

Having a sigmoid polyp doesn't need to frighten you. The most important thing is to find out that you have it before it becomes malignant, so it can be removed and you can remain colon cancer free.

Colorectal Cancer - She Declined Chemotherapy and Opted for Herbs

Amy (not real name) was 48 years old when she was diagnosed with Stage 3 colon (caecum) cancer in 2001. She underwent a hemicolectomy on 5 November 2001. The histopathology report indicated: "moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma of caecum involving pericolic fat. The pericolic (6/10) and apical nodes (2/2) are involved by metastatic tumour (Duke C 2. T3 N2 Mx). The resected margin are free."

Her surgeon recommended chemotherapy but Amy declined. She opted for herbs instead. She came to CA Care in November 2001 and was started on herbs: Capsule A, GI (1) Tea, Lympho-Tea (stopped mid-2006) and C-tea. She has been taking these herbs "religiously" ever since.

It has been six years and Amy is doing fine. Over the years she had gone back to her surgeon for surveillance check up and there was nothing amiss.

I met up with Amy and her husband on 18 September 2006 and had a chat.

Question: You underwent an operation but did not go for chemotherapy, radiotherapy or take any doctor's medication? You started to take herbs and are still doing so up to this day. Are you a healthy person - are you okay?

Amy: Yes, I am healthy. I think I am healthier now than I was before. This is because I don't have any more gastric problem -- unless of course when I over-eat or when I am hungry. Otherwise, I don't have any gastric problem. I sleep better. Energy wise I am good. Before I was on the herbs, I would be sleepy by 9 to 10 p.m. Just one or two weeks after I started to take the herbs until this day, I am still not sleepy even if it is 12 mid-night. And remember, I wake up at 6 o'clock every morning. Even that, I feel fresh the whole day and I don't feel sleepy or tired and am full of energy. I don't need to sleep in the afternoon.

Q: After the surgery, were you asked to go for chemotherapy?

Husband: After the operation, the doctor was asking us to start chemotherapy as soon as possible. To the doctor, we must not delay this treatment.

A: The operation was done on 5 November. A week later, I had to go back to the hospital for a follow up examination. The doctor told me that I would need to go for 30 sessions of chemotherapy. One week would be 5 sessions. I would then have to take two or three weeks rest and then start the cycle again. The doctor was telling me that I must do this quickly if not the cancer can come back again. I was asked to fix a chemo-pot but I declined. After this, I decided to come to CA Care instead.

Q: After you decided to take herbs instead of undergoing chemotherapy, did you get any pressure from your doctors -- that this might not be the right approach?

Husband: No. This was because we did not go back to the oncologist any more. If we were to go back to him, we might get such "pressure". We started to take the herbs. She was not getting worse. Instead she was getting better. So, we shut our mind to all other external pressures or advice and kept our focus on the herbs and on what we have decided to do.

Q: How did you feel after talking to the oncologist?

A: I felt very depressed. I did not like the way he talked to me. It appeared like he wanted to do business -- then he said, you must do this and do that. He was not kind like the other doctors. He was very insensitive. We were very unhappy and decided to come and see you instead.

Husband: After we saw the oncologist, we knew that we could not "click" with him. On the other hand, the surgeon was a very kind man. When we told him that we would not go for chemotherapy, he said: "Do what you believe in." He was more supportive than the oncologist who was not friendly at all. We never went back to see the oncologist ever again.

A: In fact to this day, my surgeon is very supportive. When I went back for my routine check up, he still enquired if I was still taking the herbs. He also asked if I ate meat, and that I was still on vegetables, etc. I think my surgeon was very happy to see me well.

Husband: We were very fortunately to have a nice and kind surgeon.

Q: If you look back, would you do the same thing all over again with regards to your cancer treatment?

A: I am satisfied with what I have gone through and what I did. There were no regrets. I still remember what my husband told me: "Amy, if you do not want to go for chemotherapy and wanted to go on the herbs, you have to believe in what you are going to do. If you don't believe that the herbs are going to work for you, then don't take them. I want you to put in your heart and soul to do this".

Q: Besides taking the herbs and following our diet recommendation, did you take any other herbs or supplements?

A: No supplements. I took fruit juices for the first few years. It was only later that I started to take fish oil and sometimes garlic pills. Apart from that I was and am entirely on your herbs.

Q: After taking the herbs, how long did you get to experience their effects?

A: When I first came to collect the herbs, I was told that I would pass out a lot of smelly stools. That would be the first sign of cleansing. It happened exactly like I was told when I started the herbs. I passed out a lot of dark stools. The smell was real awful. I felt exhausted after this cleansing. This process went on for about 5 to 6 days after I started to take the herbs. Then, things gradually went back to normal.

Q: After taking the herbs for a week, did you feel any better?

A: Of course. I felt better. I was not sleepy anymore. Energy wise I was better.

Q: Over this five years, did the herbs and CA Care made any impact on you?

A: Yes, of course. When we came to collect herbs, Khadijah and Johan always have a lot of good words and encouragement for me. Then, I also remember when I came here and I met you. You talked to me and gave encouraging advice. These words still stuck with me. You said: "It is not the herbs alone - it is also your will to live and wanting to get well. Besides, patients must keep to their good diet". "Laska" was my favorite food. Because of your words, I dared not eat "laksa" for many years!

Learn The Common Symptoms Of Colon Cancer In Order To Get Immediate Treatment

Colon cancer is a dangerous form of cancer that starts in the colon, and then if nothing is done to treat it, it will start to spread. The causes of colon cancer have not been discovered yet, but scientists are researching its causes and new treatments that can help cure colon cancer and metastatic colon cancer.

The colon and the rectum for the large intestine. First, a tumor appears in the colon or sometimes in the rectum, and then it starts to grow, and the cancerous tissue spreads. In time it can reach other organs, such as the liver or the lungs.

In its early phases colon cancer can be treated quite easily, and the survival rate for patients diagnosed with stage 2 or 3 colon cancer is over 80%. However, if the cancer advances to the third or fourth stage, it will be really hard to cure it, the survival rate drops under 10%, but there still is hope.

This is why it is important to learn the signs and symptoms of colon cancer, and detect them early in order to start the treatment as soon as possible. The problem is that stage 1 or 2 colon cancer has almost no symptoms at all, and it's hard to detect this disease until it has already advanced too much.

These are the common symptoms that may indicate an early colon cancer or a high risk of developing colon cancer:

-stool that contains small amounts of blood

-bleeding from the anus, which appears more rarely, and may just be a coincidence, but it can also be a sign

If colon cancer has advanced, then many symptoms appear. The most commonly encountered ones are:

-pain in the abdomen

-vomiting and nausea

-larger amount of blood in the stool

-change in bowel habits

-sudden weight loss

-thin stool

-stomach cramps

-diarrhea

-fatigue or tiredness

If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above then immediately consult a doctor. Some of them can be cause by other affections, but in either case it's important to seek medical attention. The doctors will perform some tests and clinical trials which will determine if you have or haven't got colon cancer,and how far has it spread.

If it has not spread much then it can easily be treated with a colon cancer surgery, that removes the parts of the large intestine where tumors are.

A stage IV colon cancer diagnose is a very bad news, and it will probably change your life, but remember that there still is hope.

Colon Cancer: All the General Information About Colon Cancer that You Need to Know

Colon cancer is, as its name suggests, a disease that affects the colon. The colon is a tube shaped organ, located in the abdomen, that starts at the end of the bowel and ends with the anus. It twists and turns a lot, so its length is over 4 feet. The functions of the colon are to digest the food, absorb the nutrient substances from it (proteins and aminoacids), and to create the concentrated fecal material, which is then stored and eliminated from the colon when the time comes. The end of the colon is called rectum. The rectum and the colon together form the large intestine.

When colon cancer occurs, tumors appear on the inner walls of the large intestine. There are two types of tumors - benign tumors, also called polyps, which are not dangerous, and malignant tumors, which are the cancer.

Polyps do not spread to other cells and tissues and they can be easily removed. Tumors on the other hand, can spread and cause life-threatening complications. Remember that a benign polyp will turn into a malignant tumor if it is not treated in time.

Once a colon cancer appears it will start to spread and attack other tissues and cells, and eventually it can reach the lungs or the liver and form new tumors there.

The causes of colon cancer are nor entirely known, but what is known is that some people are at a higher risk of developing colon cancer than others. Those who consume large quantities of fats and those who had a history of colon cancer in the family are most likely to get colon cancer. Smoking and alcohol also increases the risks.

The disease has almost no symptoms when it is in its early stages, and when it advances the symptoms are different from one person to another and they depend on the size of the cancer and its exact location.

The most commonly encountered symptoms of colon cancer are:

-narrow stools

-stool that contains blood

-abdominal cramps and pain

-excessive gas

-weight loss

-change in bowel habits

If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above consult a doctor as fast as you can. He will make several tests in order to establish a diagnose. Some people consider these tests to be embarrassing, because among them there are rectal exams, and fecal sample tests.

If the test results indicate colon cancer than treatment must begin as soon as possible before it spreads to other areas. The main options for colon cancer treatment are surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Surgery the most popular treatment method.

The good news is that most of the people survive colon cancer, as time passes the survival rate increases. Survival depends on which stage of colon cancer the patient has. If the cancer has reached the final stage then the chances are much lower because the cancer has already spread to other distant organs of the body.

Although the treatments are improving and the survival rate is increasing colon cancer is still one of the leading cause of death, because many don't know that they have it until they reach the final stages. It is important to pay attention to its symptoms and consult a doctor for medical advice from time to time.

Why Bacteria May Be the Cause of Colon Cancer Symptoms

New research may link one of the species of bacteria that live in our digestive system to the development of colon cancer symptoms. Home to many species, some "good" and others "bad", our digestive system provides these microbes a place to live, and in return they help with digestion and training the body's immune system. In susceptible people, this otherwise harmless organism causes DNA changes that can be a precursor to cancer.

The organism, known to scientists as enterococcus faecalis, (or E. faecalis for short) lives quietly in the digestive system of most of us, and it's true that not everyone develops colon cancer. For reasons scientists have yet to understand, in some people the organism produces an oxygen molecule known as superoxide that cause changes in DNA and prompt some of the gene action tied to cancer.

The research, conducted by the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Oklahoma City, looked at how colon cells reacted in the lab to the bacteria in the "fermentation" state. All in all, 42 genes linked to key processes in body cells were altered by the presence of E. faecalis.

"We found that superoxide led to strong signaling in immune cells called macrophages - it also altered the way some cells in the gut grew and divided and even increased the productivity of genes which are associated with cancer." says professor Mark Huycke, the lead researcher.

Experts in the UK also agree that bacteria may be likely culprits in cancers of the colon. Dr. Barry Campbell of the University of Liverpool agrees that E. faecalis could be involved, but he also believes that there are other bacteria in the bowel that play a part in the cell changes that eventually bring on tumors. He insists, "There is not going to be only one culprit. Our own team is interested in a particular type of E. coli with this in mind. There are also many other factors which are involved, such as genetics and environment."

And while the experts figure out what may be the root of the problem, there are things that you can do, right now, to reduce your risk. Living a healthy lifestyle where you eat right, exercise, don't smoke or drink to excess are important first steps. Keeping your weight under control will not only reduce your colon cancer risk, it will have you looking better and feeling better too.

You'll also want to learn all you can about colon cancer if you have a close family member like a parent or sibling with this disease. If you are at increased risk, your doctor will likely advise you to have colon screening tests before the usual age of 50. Don't put these off, and report promptly any change in your bowel habits to your doctor. Waiting in fear does you no good... and may rob you of your chance to fight your disease.

You'll also want to limit your exposure to toxins and radiation. While it takes a lot of radiation to get to a level that might cause cancer, you want to have tests you need but try to avoid exposure to unnecessary radiation.

Each year colon cancer claims nearly 50,000 lives, with over 100,000 patients newly diagnosed with colon cancer symptoms. Treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy and vaccine therapy. Clinical trials are also ongoing and yielding promising new leads all the time.