What is Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the colon or the rectum, parts of the large intestine and the digestive system's lower section. It's sometimes referred to as colon cancer or rectal cancer, depending on where it starts, but both types of cancer have many common features. Colorectal cancer starts as small, benign (noncancerous) clumps of cells called polyps on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. Over time, some of these polyps can become colorectal cancers.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What Are Common Signs and Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer?

Symptoms of colorectal cancer may not appear until the disease has progressed and can include:

• Changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation or a change in the consistency of your stool

• Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool

• Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas, or pain

• A feeling that your bowel doesn't empty completely

• Weakness or fatigue

• Unexplained weight loss

 

Can We Prevent Colorectal Cancer?

While not all colorectal cancers can be prevented, certain measures can significantly reduce your risk:

• Regular screening tests starting at age 45 or earlier for people with a family history of the disease

• Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

• Reducing red meat and processed meats

• Regular physical activity

• Maintaining a healthy weight

• Limiting alcohol consumption and not smoking

 

How Do We Diagnose Colorectal Cancer?

Diagnosis of colorectal cancer typically involves:

• Colonoscopy: A procedure to look inside the rectum and colon for polyps, tumor, and other abnormalities.

• Blood tests: Including tests to check for a chemical sometimes produced by colorectal cancers (carcinoembryonic antigen or CEA).

• Imaging tests: Such as CT colonography, MRIs, and ultrasounds to provide images of the colon and rectum.

 

What Treatment Options Are Available for Colorectal Cancer?

Treatment for colorectal cancer depends on its type, stage, and other health factors. Common treatments include:

• Surgery: To remove cancer cells, polyps, part of the colon or rectum, and nearby lymph nodes.

• Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to destroy cancer cells, usually after surgery to eliminate any remaining cells.

• Radiation therapy: Uses powerful energy sources, such as X-rays, to kill cancer cells, often used in rectal cancer.

• Targeted therapy: Focuses on specific abnormalities within cancer cells.

• Immunotherapy: Uses the body's immune system to fight cancer.

The choice of treatment often involves a combination of these methods to effectively target the cancer.