One of the most common cancers in the world, colorectal cancer (CRC) affects the colon or rectum. It usually arises from abnormal growths called precancerous polyps in the colon or rectum’s lining. Awareness is essential since early detection and treatment can increase survival rates.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Family History: A history of polyps or colorectal cancer in the family increases risk.
- Lifestyle Factors: Obesity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, inadequate fiber intake, and diets heavy in red and processed meats are all factors.
- Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD): Conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis increase risk.
- Genetic Syndromes: Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) are linked to CRC.
Symptoms to Watch For
Early-stage colorectal cancer frequently shows no symptoms, but as it advances, symptoms could include:
- Constant alterations in bowel patterns, such as constipation or diarrhea
- Blood in stool or rectal bleeding
- Abdominal pain, cramps, or bloating
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue due to anemia (from chronic blood loss)
Diagnosis and Screening
A colonoscopy is a gold-standard procedure in which the colon is examined for polyps using a camera.
- The Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) finds blood in feces that is concealed.
- The lower intestine is examined using a flexible sigmoidoscopy.
- Imaging Tests MRIs and CT scans can be used to assess the spread of cancer.
Treatment Options
- Surgery: Usually performed in the early stages, surgery removes tumors and damaged tissue.
- Chemotherapy: Used to shrink tumors or kill cancer cells.
- Radiation therapy : Before or after surgery, radiation therapy is frequently used to treat rectal cancer.
- Immunotherapy and targeted therapy are cutting-edge therapies for metastatic conditions.
Prevention Tips
- Start routine screenings at age 45, or earlier if you are at high risk.
- Healthy Diet, limit processed meats and consume more fruits, vegetables, and meals high in fiber.
- Exercise and weight control lower risk.
- Both excessive alcohol consumption and smoking raise the risk of colorectal cancer.
Colorectal cancer is preventable and treatable if caught early. Knowing the risk factors, symptoms, and screening options can save lives. If you’re at risk or experience symptoms, consult a doctor promptly.