What is Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer develops in the colon or rectum, vital parts of the digestive system. The colon absorbs water and nutrients from food and transforms leftover waste into stool. The rectum stores stool until it's eliminated from the body. Cancer that originates in the colon is known as colon cancer, while cancer that starts in the rectum is referred to as rectal cancer. Both types may be referred to as colorectal cancer.
Causes of Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer is linked to genetic changes, which can occur during a person's lifetime. While the exact cause is unknown, some genetic changes can be inherited, increasing the risk of colorectal cancer. Lifestyle and environmental factors also play a role in developing colorectal cancer.
Who is More Likely to Develop Colorectal Cancer?
Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer:
- Age: The risk increases with age.
- Family History: A personal or family history of colorectal cancer is a significant factor.
- History of Adenomas: Abnormal colorectal polyps can potentially turn into cancer.
- Genetic Syndromes: Conditions like familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or Lynch syndrome increase the risk.
- Chronic Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: Ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease for 8 years or more.
- Alcohol and Tobacco Use: Consuming three or more alcoholic drinks per day and smoking cigarettes.
- Racial Background: Black people have a higher risk of colorectal cancer and death.
- Obesity
Symptoms
Many individuals with colon cancer may not initially experience symptoms. However, symptoms vary depending on the size and location of the cancer:
- Changes in bowel habits (diarrhoea or constipation)
- Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
- Incomplete emptying of the bowel during a bowel movement
- Weakness or fatigue
- Unintentional weight loss
Diagnosis
Tests and procedures for colon cancer diagnosis include:
- Colonoscopy: A flexible tube with a video camera examines the colon and rectum, allowing for tissue sampling and polyp removal.
- Biopsy: A tissue sample is collected for lab testing to determine if cells are cancerous and how quickly they're growing.
- Blood Tests: Although not used for diagnosis, blood tests provide information about overall health and can detect low red blood cell levels or high levels of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), a protein produced by colon cancer.
Treatment
Treatment typically includes surgical removal of the cancer. Additional treatments like radiation therapy and chemotherapy may be suggested based on the cancer's location, stage, and overall health. A surgical oncologist team develops a personalized treatment plan considering these factors.
Disclaimer
This is general information about the disease and treatment options, please consult a specialist doctor for right diagnosis and treatment which may vary based on each patient. Book an appointment with your specialist to know further.
At Royal Care Hospitals we are equipped to treat colon cancer with advanced radiation oncology technology. Our interdisciplinary teams of specialized consultants provide care from diagnosis to treatment and recovery, ensuring high-quality care and advanced treatment options for colon cancer patients.
