What is colon cancer?
Colorectal cancer or colon cancer is a serious condition that can have tremendous impact on your life. It
begins when healthy cells in the lining of the colon or rectum change and start to grow uncontrollably,
forming a tumor. This tumor can be either cancerous, meaning it can spread to other parts of the body,
or it can be benign, meaning it can grow but won’t spread. It usually takes years for these changes to
occur, but if you have an uncommon inherited syndrome, the changes can happen in a much shorter
time. Both genetic and environmental factors can cause these changes, so it is important to be aware of
the risk factors. It is also necessary to take steps to prevent the condition.
Who is at risk of developing colon cancer?
Although, risk factors often influence the development of cancer it does not necessarily mean those who
are at risk will definitely develop cancer. Therefore, knowing what factors may lead to the development
of said cancer can be a lifesaver. Some of the factors that can influence the development for colon
cancer are:
Age
As people age, they are more likely to get colorectal cancer. Although young adults and teenagers can
develop colorectal cancer, those over the age of 50 account for the majority of cases. For men with
colon cancer, the average age of diagnosis is 68, whereas for women it is 72. Age 63 is the cutoff for
rectal cancer in both men and women. When diagnosed with colorectal cancer, adults 65 and older
confront particular difficulties, particularly when it comes to cancer treatment.
Race
A significant contributor to cancer-related deaths among Black people is colorectal cancer. Compared to
women of other races, Black women have a higher risk of dying from colorectal cancer, and Black males
have an even higher risk than Black women. It’s unclear why these disparities exist. The American
College of Gastroenterology advises that Black people start colonoscopies for screening at age 45 since
they are more likely than White people to be diagnosed with colorectal cancer at a younger age (see
Screening). An earlier screening could identify colon abnormalities when they are more manageable to
treat.
Gender
Men are more likely to develop colon cancer.
Family history
If first-degree relatives (parents, siblings, children, etc.) or a large number of other family members
(grandparents, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, grandchildren, cousins), have had colorectal cancer,
colorectal cancer may run in the family. When a family member is diagnosed with colorectal cancer
before the age of 60, this is particularly true. A person’s risk of having colorectal cancer is almost
doubled if they have a family history of the disease. If a first-degree relative was diagnosed with
colorectal cancer earlier in life or if additional close relatives have also developed the disease, the risk is
increased much more.
It is crucial to discuss the history of colorectal cancer in your family with your loved ones. Before doing
any genetic testing, consult with a genetic counselor if you suspect that you may have a family history of
colorectal cancer. Genetic counselors are qualified to explain the dangers and advantages of genetic
testing. Genetic testing is the only way to determine whether you have a genetic mutation.
Lack of physical activities
People who are obese or lead an inactive lifestyle may be at a higher risk of developing colon or colorectal cancer.
Smokers
Studies have shown that smokers are more likely to die from colon cancer than non-smokers
How to prevent the development of colon cancer
There is no fool-proof method to prevent colon cancer but here are some things you can do to reduce your risk:
Get screened
Tests known as screenings check for cancer before symptoms and signs appear. These examinations can
identify colon or rectal cancer early, when successful treatments are more likely. For those at average
risk, the American Cancer Society suggests testing begin at age 45. Precancerous growths (polyps) in the
colon or rectum can also be found and removed using some colorectal screening tests. Although polyps
do not now have cancer, it may develop into it in the future. Cancer risk is decreased by getting rid of
them. When you should start screening and which tests may be best for you should be discussed with
your healthcare provider.
Eat healthy
Studies have shown diets high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains have been linked to with a
decreased risk of colon cancer or colorectal cancer. Eat less of processed meats, such as hot dog and
various luncheon meats as well as red meat (beef, hog, or lamb) as these have been associated with an
increased risk of developing colon or colorectal cancer.
Get active
Your risk of getting colorectal cancer may be higher if you are not physically active. Increased activity
may assist in lowering your risk. Walking, running or playing sports regularly can help lower your risk of
developing colon cancer. It is important to note that being overweight or obese can increase your risk of
developing and dying from colon cancer so it is advisable to monitor your weight, you can discuss with
your doctor what might be best for you.
Smoking and alcohol
Smoking and alcohol consumption can increase your risk of developing colon cancer.
According to research, lifestyle choices related to nutrition, weight, and activity significantly increase the
risk of colorectal cancer. Some of these lifestyle habits could be challenging to change. Making the
modifications, however, can also reduce the chance for numerous more cancers as well as other life-
threatening conditions including heart disease and diabetes.
What are the symptoms of colon cancer
The symptoms of colon cancer may include:
Constipation, diarrhea, or a change in the stool’s consistency that lasts for a long time are
examples of persistent changes in bowel habits.
Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool
Continuing pain in the abdominal region, such as cramps
Weakness or fatigue
Unusual weight loss.
How is colon cancer diagnosed?
A colonoscopy is a procedure in which a flexible fiber-optic instrument is inserted
through the anus in order to examine the colon. Colonoscopy is still considered the
optimal practice to locate polyps and colorectal cancer. This technique is a
secure and productive method of studying the large intestine. The technology for colonoscopy has been
improved to allow for a clear view of the mucosa by means of a video camera
hooked up to the end of the scope. This camera is connected to a computer,
which is able to store and produce colored images taken during the procedure.
If you notice any of the symptoms listed above it is important you contact your health Care provider on
whether or not you need to schedule the procedure
Blood test
Your doctor may test your blood for clues about your overall health, such as kidney and liver function.
However, no blood test can diagnose colon cancer.
Occasionally, your doctor may test your blood for a chemical produced by colon cancers
(carcinoembryonic antigen, or CEA). Tracked over time, CEA levels in your blood may help your doctor
determine whether your cancer is responding to treatment.
How is colon cancer treated?
There are a number of ways colon cancer can be treated.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a type of treatment that uses chemicals to kill cancer cells. There are different types of
chemotherapy, each with different side effects. Chemotherapy can be used alone or in combination
with other treatments such as surgery, radiation therapy and/or targeted agents (drugs).
Chemotherapy is not always successful in treating colon cancer and may cause additional damage to
healthy cells which could lead to death if left untreated, so it is important to schedule regular checkups
with your doctor.
Surgery
Surgical removal of the colon is the most common treatment for colon cancer. Surgical removal is also
called an operation or excision. It may be curative if the cancer or tumor can be completely removed
from your body, or it may be used to remove all or part of your colon so that you have no remaining
signs of cancer on your body (known as a “complete resection”).
The type of operation you have depends on what kind of surgery is indicated for your particular case:
If there’s only one tumor left after surgery, then this may be performed as a simple laparotomy (where
surgeons make an opening in front with their hands and arms) without creating any new wounds;
however, this is rarely done today because it has been found that if there are multiple tumors present
during surgery they increase the risk of the cancer being spread throughout other parts of our bodies
such as lymph nodes. This could lead us down long hard roads before finding out exactly how much
damage has been done – thus leading us back into chemo again.
Radiation
Radiation therapy is a treatment that uses high-energy waves or particles to destroy cancer cells. The
radiation is delivered to the affected area by using a machine that directs beams of energy. Radiation
can be used to treat colon cancer in several ways:
Ablation, which involves removing part of your colon near its base so that it doesn’t have any blood flow
from your digestive system and instead acts as an impassible barrier between you and any remaining
cancer cells in there (this can also help reduce side effects).
Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT), where doctors use X-rays or other types of radiation beams to
target specific tumors within your body’s tissue, then remove them surgically afterwards – this method
has fewer side effects than traditional surgeries do because they don’t require cutting into your body as
much.
Stem cell therapy
Stem cell therapy is a treatment option for colon cancer. Stem cells are taken from the patient’s own
body and grown in the lab, then injected back into their bodies to restore healthy tissue.
This is a promising treatment that has shown promise in lab studies, but it has not yet been approved by
the FDA
Conclusion
Colon cancer is the third most common form of cancer in men and women. It can develop in the colon,
rectum or anus and may sometimes spread to other parts of the body. Treatment options for colon
cancer include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Stem cell therapy may also be used as part
of this treatment regimen.
