Greetings! It is colon cancer awareness month and it’s fair that I bring you information about this condition. Colon cancer is among the top 5 cancers that affect both sexes. If you or someone you know is constantly constipated, has bloody stools, or suffers from prolonged anemia, it’s time to get tested soon. Happy reading as you get informed from this article that I came across.  

 Colon Cancer; courtesy of Blausen Medical Communications, Inc. 

Colorectal cancer (CRC), also known as bowel cancer and colon cancer, is the development of cancer from the colon or rectum (parts of the large intestine). Cancer is the abnormal growth of cells that can spread to other parts of the body. Some of the signs and symptoms may include blood in the stool, a change in bowel movements, weight loss, and feeling tired all the time.

Most colorectal cancers are due to old age and lifestyle factors with only a small number of cases due to underlying genetic disorders. Some risk factors include diet, obesity, smoking, and lack of physical activity. Dietary factors that increase the risk include red and processed meat as well as alcohol. Another risk factor is inflammatory bowel disease, which includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Some inherited genetic disorders that can cause colorectal cancer include familial adenomatous polyposis and hereditary non-polyposis colon cancer; however, these represent less than 5% of cases. It typically starts as a benign tumor, often in the form of a polyp, which over time becomes cancerous.

Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Bowel cancer may be diagnosed by obtaining a colon sample during a sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy. This is then followed by medical imaging to determine if the disease has spread. Screening is effective in preventing and decreasing deaths from colorectal cancer. Screening, by one of several methods, is recommended starting from the age of 50 to 75. During the colonoscopy, small polyps may be removed if found. If a large polyp or tumor is found, a biopsy may be performed to check if it is cancerous. Aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs decrease the risk. Their general use is not recommended for this purpose, however, due to side effects.

Treatments used for colorectal cancer may include some combination of surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy. Cancers that are confined within the wall of the colon may be curable with surgery. In contrast, cancer that has spread widely is usually not curable, with management being directed towards improving quality of life and symptoms.

Global Impact of Colon Cancer

The five-year survival rate in the United States is around 65%. The individual likelihood of survival depends on how advanced the cancer is, whether or not all cancer can be removed with surgery and the person’s overall health. Globally, colorectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer, making up about 10% of all cases. In 2012, there were 1.4 million new cases and 694,000 deaths from the disease.

Colon Cancer is a serious health concern that infects and affects millions worldwide. Understanding the risk factors, recognizing the symptoms, and regular screenings can save you in case of early detection. Remember to consistently live a healthy lifestyle for your benefit and those around you. In case of any symptoms, seek medical care. Cancer is possible to be treated with the right diagnosis.