Colon cancer, also called colorectal cancer when it includes the rectum, is a type of cancer that begins in the colon (large intestine) or rectum. It usually starts as small, noncancerous growths called polyps, which can become cancerous over time if not detected. Early detection is crucial because treatment is far more effective in the initial stages.
Here’s a clear breakdown:
Risk Factors
- Age: Most cases occur in people over 50.
- Family history: Having a parent, sibling, or child with colon cancer increases risk.
- Genetics: Certain inherited syndromes (e.g., Lynch syndrome, FAP).
- Diet and lifestyle: High red/processed meat intake, low fiber, sedentary lifestyle, obesity.
- Other conditions: Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis), diabetes.
Symptoms
Early stages often have no symptoms, but possible signs include:
- Blood in stool (bright red or dark/black)
- Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, narrower stools)
- Unexplained abdominal pain or cramps
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue (from anemia due to blood loss)
Diagnosis
- Screening tests: Colonoscopy (gold standard), stool tests (FIT, FOBT), CT colonography.
- Imaging: CT scans or MRI for staging.
- Biopsy: Tissue sample during colonoscopy confirms cancer.
Treatment Options
Depends on the stage:
- Surgery: Removing the tumor and sometimes nearby lymph nodes.
- Chemotherapy: Often used after surgery to kill remaining cancer cells.
- Radiation therapy: More common for rectal cancer.
- Targeted therapies & immunotherapy: Used in advanced stages or certain genetic profiles.
Prevention Tips
- Get regular screenings, especially after age 45 or earlier if high-risk.
- Eat a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and fiber; limit red/processed meats.
- Maintain a healthy weight and stay physically active.
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol.
💡 Important Note: Many people with colon cancer don’t have obvious symptoms early, which is why screening is so important. Catching polyps or early-stage cancer can be life-saving.
If you want, I can also explain the stages of colon cancer and what survival rates look like at each stage in a simple, easy-to-understand way. It helps make the picture much clearer.
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