| Colon Cancer In Children |
| Written by Maggie Hirko | |
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This isn’t exactly correct. Not a large percentage of children get colon cancer…only about 3% out of 15 million children will be affected, but even a small percentage is too many. The saddest part of all is that the children that do get colon cancer have a much harder time with the disease than adults. Researchers say the reasons behind that statement is the tumors in children tend to be more aggressive and that children are not diagnosed as early as most adults. Children At Risk For Colon CancerMost of the children that get colon cancer have a family history of the disease. So if you have children, pay special attention to any family history of colorectal cancer or rectal bleeding. If there is a family history of either one you may want to have your children checked at regular intervals—specifically for this disease.It has been found that if a close relative, either parents or siblings, have been diagnosed with colon cancer BEFORE they reach age 60 that others in the family will be more at risk for developing the disease. So if one of these relatives had cancer, the close relation should be tested. These tests should be done at an age at least ten years younger than the age of the relative at time of their diagnosis. Children with Crohns Disease may have an increased risk for colon cancer. Crohn's disease is often simply called colitis. This disease is an inflammatory disease of the intestines. Crohn’s can involve any part of the gastrointestinal tract and causes a large variety of symptoms. These symptoms can include abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and weight loss. Symptoms and Signs of Colon Cancer In ChildrenOther symptoms or signs of colon cancer might include any rectal bleeding. Rectal bleeding may be hidden, and could first show up as iron deficiency anemia. The anemia will probably be accompanied by fatigue and paleness. Hidden blood loss can be detected with a stool sample exam.Constipation can be a sign of colon cancer, especially if it becomes chronic or if there are any other changes, such as the frequency or character of the bowel movements. A blockage of the colon can usually be detected because an extended stomach is noticeable. An extended stomach means that the stomach is sticking out more than normal without showing any other signs of weight gain. Nausea or vomiting can be a sign if it there isn’t any other explanation for the vomiting…as can an unexplained weight loss. The problem with any of these signs is that they could fit a number of problems, most of which would not be as serious as colon cancer, so that makes detection even harder. But considering the seriousness of the disease if you are noticing one or more of these signs it would be worth talking to your child’s doctor and having the appropriate test. Pain is NOT a usual symptom of Colon Cancer. However, if the cancer is around the rectum itself and is invading the tissue around the area, there may be pain associated with that tumor. But don’t associate no pain with no problem, as the beginning of colon cancer usually doesn’t cause pain. Tests AvailableResearchers have found that the usual amount of time from the start of symptoms, or signs—until diagnosis—is on average about 14 weeks. The earlier the disease is diagnosed, the easier it is to treat and possibly cure.There are several tests that can be given to determine the reasons for most of the above problems. One is a Digital Rectal Exam, which consists of a doctor inserting a gloved finger into the rectum. Another well–known test is a Colonoscopy. This test is not painful, nor lengthy, and is well worth the short time it takes to obtain the results. There is also a simple Stool Sample Test. Parents check your family history, keep track of your child’s health complaints and even if they seem minor, if the child complains often, make an appointment and have the necessary tests ran. Statistics may be small, but if it’s your child that is among the 3% of 15 million that contract the disease you will be thankful for an early exam. |
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