Diabetes and Colorectal Cancer
The list of complications for those who have diabetes
is endless. If you are diabetic, you already know the complications
that can arise. Recently, one more item was added to the already
long list of concerns. Studies show that those with diabetes have a
higher risk of developing colorectal cancer. The good news is that
if we have diabetes, colorectal cancer that is caught early is
curable.
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Colorectal cancers are the second most common cause
of cancer deaths in the United States.
Although diabetes is not listed as a risk for
colorectal cancer, age is. That is why it is recommended
you start screening at 50 or earlier if you have a family
history of colon cancer, or have had irritable bowel
syndrome. IBS is cases of prolonged diarrhea or constant
constipation, usually worsened by stress. You should know
that if you have had trouble with this, you are more at risk
for colorectal cancer.
You can protect yourself from this disease.
Your diet full of fruits, vegetables, and little red meat
helps you from developing colorectal cancer. You also must
keep a healthy weight and exercise your body. In addition,
you should begin to have colorectal screening when you are
50. |
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Early screening is important for the early
detection and treatment of colorectal cancer. Most patients have a colonoscopy or a sigmoidosocopy; both are
usually painless and done as an outpatient. Most people are
given a light sedative, and after the test has been completed,
they’re allowed time to recover, and usually sent home.
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Diabetics face a challenge when it comes to
preparing for the exam. The day before the procedure, you
will have to follow a liquid diet and this could cause
problems for some diabetics. You also have to take a strong
laxative and that could cause dehydration, possible
fainting, and low blood glucose.
If you are diabetic and preparing for a
colonoscopy procedure, you need to test your blood sugar
more often the day before the test. Also the day of the
test, and possibly for the next two to three days after the
procedure you will need to test more often. It’s important
if you are diabetic, your doctor should try to schedule the
test for as early in the morning as possible. You will fast
from midnight the day before until after your test is
completed. I know the laxative tastes horrible.
One little known fact is, refrigerate the liquid laxative
overnight before taking it, and drink it as quickly as
possible to avoid the bitter taste. |
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If you are taking insulin to control your
diabetes, you will need to speak to your doctor to see if you
should reduce your dosage the preparation day and the day of the
test.
If you are a diabetic, protect yourself from the
added risk of colorectal cancer. Eat foods high in fiber, fresh
fruit, and vegetables; reduce the red meat in your diet, and
exercise!
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