Colorectal cancer is one of the common types of cancer that can be treated with timely diagnosis and proper treatment.
Colon cancer is also known as bowel cancer or rectal cancer which affects the colon in the large intestine. 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 shape and show fewer or no symptoms. That is why it is a matter of serious concern. In order to prevent colon cancer, one has to undergo regular screening for overall good health, especially if someone has a family history of cancer.
The good news is that it is one of those cancers that can be treated and cured completely!
Risk Factors for Colon Cancer
It is more common in people with the following conditions:
- Age more than 50 years.
- A personal history of colorectal cancer or polyps.
- Inflammatory intestinal diseases.
- Chronic inflammatory diseases (such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease)
- Inherited diseases that increase colon cancer risk.
- Family history of cancer
- Low-fiber in body
- An unhealthy lifestyle
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Excessive Smoking
- Alcoholic
- Who already underwent radiation therapy for cancer.
Signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer
If there is any development of cancerous tissues in the colon, one may experience these early signs and symptoms-
- Change in bowel habits
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Change in the consistency of stool
- Blood in stool
- Abdominal discomforts, such as cramps, gas, or pain
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
- Severe vomiting
If you suffer from above-mentioned signs or symptoms, then please consult a doctor to prevent any serious health complications.
Diagnosis
If the examination of symptoms leads to abnormal findings, the doctor might recommend the following tests.
- Blood tests
- Imaging tests (X-rays, CT scan, MRI scan, PET scan, ultrasound, angiography)
- Biopsy
- Diagnostic colonoscopy
- Proctoscopy
- Routine screening
Treatment
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. Colon cancer is usually treated with surgery to remove the cancerous 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
Prevention
Prevention can help you escape the complications that come while fighting with cancer and its treatment. One can prevent it by living a healthy lifestyle and adopting below habits-
- Taking a well-balanced diet.
- Intake of a variety of fruits, vegetables and whole-grain that contain vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Including food that has antioxidants, it helps in cancer prevention.
- Limiting and quitting alcohol, if you are a frequent drinker then limit it and then slowly quit it.
- Quit smoking
- Performing some exercises daily for at least 20 minutes.
- Maintaining a healthy body weight.
- Not eating junk food, oily food, or fried foods that contain additives.
- Drinking enough water
Conclusion
Colon cancer is not too severe and can be treated and managed easily but for that one has to get timely diagnosed. So if you notice any change in your digestive system and feel that it can be something else, immediately consult your nearest healthcare provider. Consulting a doctor and getting medical guidance will keep you more clear on following healthy lifestyle habits.
Do not delay! Also even if you are healthy, go for a routine checkup as recommended by your doctor. Eat healthy food, including fruits and green vegetables, perform exercises or yoga, follow a good healthy lifestyle habit, and take proper care of your body. Stay healthy, fit, fine, and happy!
