Colon cancer is a condition that arises in the colon, or the large intestine, which is an essential part of the digestive system. It usually affects older adults, though it can happen at any age. It often begins as small, noncancerous (benign) clumps of cells called polyps that form on the inside of the colon. Over time some of these polyps can become colon cancers. Colon cancer is sometimes called colorectal cancer, a term that combines colon cancer and rectal cancer, which begins in the rectum.
What Are The Main Symptoms Of Colon Cancer?
Colon cancer can be particularly challenging to detect as it might not present symptoms in its early stages. However, when they do appear, they may include:
- Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation, that persist for more than a few days.
- Feeling that your bowel doesn’t empty completely.
- Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool.
- Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas, or pain.
- A feeling of weakness or fatigue.
- Unexplained weight loss.
It’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider if you experience any of these symptoms, as they might also be common to other conditions.
What Causes Colon Cancer?
While the exact causes of colon cancer are not entirely understood, the disease starts when healthy cells in the colon develop changes (mutations) in their DNA. A cell’s DNA contains a set of instructions that tell the cell what to do. Healthy cells grow and divide in an orderly way to keep your body functioning normally. But when a cell’s DNA is damaged and becomes cancerous, cells continue to divide — even when new cells aren’t needed. As the cells accumulate, they form a tumor.
What Are The Risk Factors For Developing Colon Cancer?
Several factors may increase a person’s risk of developing colon cancer:
- Older age, particularly after 50.
- A personal or family history of colon cancer or polyps.
- Inflammatory intestinal conditions, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.
- Genetic syndromes like Lynch syndrome.
- Lifestyle factors such as diet, obesity, and smoking.
- Certain types of diets, particularly those high in red and processed meats.
How Is Colon Cancer Diagnosed?
Colon cancer is typically diagnosed through screening methods such as:
- Colonoscopy, where a long, flexible tube equipped with a video camera is used to view the entire colon and rectum.
- Virtual colonoscopy or CT colonography, which uses X-rays and computers to take two- or three-dimensional images of your colon and rectum from outside your body.
- Stool tests, which can find signs of cancer in your stool.
If signs of colon cancer are detected, a biopsy is performed during the colonoscopy to collect samples of cells for closer examination.
What Are The Treatment Options For Colon Cancer?
Treatment for colon cancer usually involves surgery to remove the cancer. Other treatments, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, might also be recommended.
- Surgery for early-stage colon cancer might be a minimally invasive approach such as polypectomy.
- More advanced cancer might require partial colectomy, removing part of the colon that’s affected.
- Chemotherapy might be used to destroy cancer cells, relieve symptoms of colon cancer, or reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.
- Radiation therapy uses powerful energy sources to kill cancer cells that might remain after surgery or to shrink large tumors before an operation so that they can be removed more easily.
How Can Colon Cancer Be Prevented?
To help reduce your risk of colon cancer:
- Get screened for colon cancer starting at age 45, or earlier if you are at higher risk.
- Eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These contain vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants, which are believed to play a role in cancer prevention.
- Drink alcohol in moderation, if at all.
- Stop smoking. Talk to your doctor about ways to quit that may work for you.
- Exercise most days of the week. Try to get at least 30 minutes of exercise on most days. If you’ve been inactive, start slowly and build up gradually to this level of activity.
- Maintain a healthy weight. If you’re at a healthy weight, work to maintain it. If you need to lose weight, ask your doctor about healthy ways to achieve your goal.
Related Questions on Colon Cancer
What is the most common cause of colon cancer?
The most common cause of colon cancer is the growth of polyps, which can transform into cancer over time. Risk factors such as age, lifestyle, and certain inherited conditions can influence the likelihood of these polyps becoming cancerous.
How long can you live with colon cancer without knowing?
Colon cancer can develop for several years before symptoms present. Due to its often stealthy progression, individuals may live with it for a long time without knowing. This emphasizes the importance of regular screenings.
How curable is colon cancer?
When detected early, colon cancer is highly treatable. Stage 1 colon cancer has a survival rate of over 90% with proper treatment. The cure rate decreases as the cancer progresses to more advanced stages.
What is the life expectancy of a person with colon cancer?
Life expectancy for a person with colon cancer varies greatly and depends on the stage at which the cancer was diagnosed and treatment effectiveness. Early detection and treatment significantly improve survival rates.
Understanding the signs, causes, and available treatment options for colon cancer provides valuable insights into managing this condition. Awareness coupled with regular screenings can lead to early detection and a better prognosis for those affected.