Colorectal cancer can be treated with timely diagnosis and proper treatment!
Colon cancer is also known as colorectal cancer which begins in the large intestine (colon). This type of cancer typically affects older adults, however, it can affect a person at any age. Initially, it develops as small noncancerous tissue in the area of the large intestine. Slowly the lumps form as polyps and these polyps become colon cancer. Generally, polyps are very small in size and show fewer or no symptoms and this makes the matter a serious concern.
Regular cancer screening tests are recommended by doctors to identify and treat the polyps before they develop into cancer.
If colon cancer develops, there are numerous treatments available to help control it, such as radiation therapy, surgery, and pharmacological treatments such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy.
Symptoms of Colon Cancer
People with colon cancer may have no symptoms in the early stages. The symptoms may vary depending on the size and location of the cancer at the time it appears. However, if you experience any of these symptoms for more than a week, you must consult a doctor. Know the symptoms of colon cancer by their stages:
Symptoms by Stage
Symptoms |
Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Diarrhea | Excessive fatigue |
| Constipation | Unexplained weakness |
| Blood in stool | Unintentional weight loss |
| Bleeding from rectum | Changes in the stool that last longer than a month< |
| Abdominal cramps and pain | Vomiting |
| Excessive gas | Loss of appetite |
Symptoms of colon cancer are more prominent in stages 3 and 4. It can spread to other parts of the body and you may also experience the following symptoms:
- Jaundice
- Blurry vision
- Breathing difficulties
- Swelling in the hands or feet
- Chronic headaches
Consult the doctor if you experience any of these mentioned symptoms. If you have any other risk factors, such as a family history of cancer disease, the doctor may recommend a cancer screening test.
Treatment
Symptoms of colon cancer are more prominent in stages 3 and 4. It can spread to other parts of the body and you may also experience the following symptoms:
Treatment of colon cancer depends on some factors such as stage of the cancer, location of cancer, severity, patient health condition, other health risks, and complications. The cancer is usually treated with surgery to remove the tissues. Following are the treatment options:
- Polypectomy
- Endoscopic resection
- Minimally invasive surgery or laparoscopic surgery
- Partial colectomy
- Lymph node removal
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted drug therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Supportive (palliative) care
Success Rate for Treatment of Colon Cancer:
In India, Colon cancer ranks as the fifth most common cancer. However, it is a highly treatable and often curable disease when diagnosed and treated early. For the treatment of colon cancer, surgery is the primary form and this can result in a cure in approximately 75% of the patients.
Reduce the risk of colon cancer
Know the lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of colon cancer:
- Have a Healthy Diet: Eat a variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
- Stay hydrated: Take enough water and fluids everyday to keep your gut healthy.
- Avoid the consumption of alcohol: Consumption of alcohol can bring your health at high risk.
- Stop smoking: Get in touch with an addiction therapist who may help you quit the habit of smoking.
- Regular exercise: Try to do daily exercise for at least 30 minutes.
- Maintain a healthy weight: With a healthy diet try to maintain a healthy weight with daily exercise. If you need to lose weight, contact a dietician who can help you to achieve your weight goal.
