What is Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, starts in the colon or rectum, which is part of the large intestine. The colon and rectum are responsible for absorbing water and nutrients from food, as well as storing and eliminating waste.

Colon cancer often starts as small, benign growths called polyps, which can develop into cancer over time. Common symptoms of colon cancer include changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea, blood in the stool, abdominal pain or discomfort, and unexplained weight loss. Risk factors for colon cancer include age, family history, certain genetic conditions, lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a diet high in red or processed meats. Regular screenings, such as colonoscopies, can help detect colon cancer early when it is most treatable.

Colon Cancer Survival: Understanding Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention


Symptoms

The symptoms of colon cancer can vary depending on the location and stage of cancer, but some common signs include the following:

  • If bowel Routines change, such as constipation or diarrhea, that lasts for more than a few days
  • Blood in the stool, which may be visible or detected only during a medical exam
  • Abdominal pain or discomfort, such as cramping, bloating, or gas
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Anemia (level of red blood cells low blood)
  • A patient of colon feels that the bowel does not empty completely
  • Narrow stools
  • Anal or rectal pain
  • Weight loss
  • Blood passes through Urination or passing urine frequently and changes in urine color like dark, rusty or brown.

It's important to note that many of these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions and not necessarily colon cancer. But if you have any of these symptoms or if you are experiencing any unusual changes, it is important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Causes of colon Cancer

The exact cause of colon cancer is not fully understood, but several factors can increase a person's risk of developing the disease. Some of the main causes of colon cancer include:

  • Age: The colon cancer Risk increases in Older people, with most cases occurring in people over the age of 50. 
  • Family history: People with a family history of colon cancer or certain inherited genetic conditions, such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), are at a higher risk of developing the disease.
  • Lifestyle factors: Certain lifestyle factors, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a diet high in red or processed meats, can increase the risk of colon cancer. Eating a diet that is low in fruits, vegetables, and fiber can also increase the risk of colon cancer.
  • Inflammatory bowel disease: People with inflammatory bowel disease, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease, have a higher risk of developing colon cancer.
  • Polyps: Certain types of benign growths called polyps in the colon or rectum can develop into cancer over time.
  • Obesity and lack of physical activity: People who are obese or have a sedentary lifestyle are at a higher risk of developing colon cancer.
It is important to note that some people may develop colon cancer without any known risk factors. Regular screenings, such as colonoscopies, can help detect colon cancer early when it is most treatable.
It's also worth noting that many of these risk factors are modifiable, so making lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and quitting smoking can help lower the risk of developing colon cancer.

Diagnosis of colon cancer

Some several tests and procedures can be used to diagnose colon cancer. But some of the most usable methods include:

Colonoscopy: This is a test that uses a long, flexible tube with a camera on the end to examine the inside of the colon and rectum. The test can detect polyps, which are small growths that can develop into cancer over time, and can also be used to biopsy (take a small tissue sample) any suspicious areas.

 Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) and fecal immunochemical test (FIT): These are tests that check for blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of colon cancer.

 Stool DNA test: This test looks for changes in the DNA of cells that are shed in the stool, which can be an early sign of colon cancer.

 Barium enema: This test, also called a lower gastrointestinal (GI) series, uses X-rays and a contrast solution to create images of the colon and rectum.

 CT colonography: Also known as a virtual colonoscopy, this test uses a CT scan to create detailed images of the colon and rectum.

Blood tests: Blood tests may also be done to check for anemia and to evaluate the function of the liver and other organs in the body.

If colon cancer is suspected, a biopsy will be done to confirm the diagnosis. In a biopsy, a small sample of tissue is taken from the suspicious area and examined under a microscope.
 
It's important to note that these tests are not only used for diagnosis but also for screening, which can detect colon cancer early when it's more treatable. It's also worth noting that some of these tests, such as colonoscopy, can be used to remove polyps during the same procedure, which can prevent colon cancer from developing.

Treatment of Colon Cancer

Treatment for colon cancer typically depends on the stage of cancer, as well as the patient's overall health and personal preferences. Some common treatment options for colon cancer include:

Surgery: The cancerous lump and any surrounding healthy tissue must be removed as the first and most important step in surgery. Depending on the stage and location of cancer, the surgery may involve removing just the tumor, or a portion of the colon or rectum.
 
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells and may be used before or after surgery to shrink the tumor or reduce the risk of cancer coming back.
 
Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells and may be used before or after surgery to shrink the tumor or reduce the risk of cancer coming back.
 
Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy uses drugs that target specific genetic mutations or proteins in cancer cells to slow or stop their growth.
 
Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is a newer treatment option that helps the body's immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.
 
Clinical trials: Some patients may be eligible for clinical trials, which are research studies that test new treatments.

The treatment plan will be tailored to the individual patient and will take into account the stage of the cancer, the location of the cancer, and the overall health of the patient. A team of specialists, including a surgeon, oncologist, and radiation oncologist, will work together to develop the best treatment plan for each patient.
 
It's worth noting that after the treatment, regular check-ups and screenings will be done to monitor cancer and detect any recurrence early. These treatments can have some side effects, so patients should discuss these with their healthcare provider before and during the treatment.

Side Effect Of Treatment of Colon Cancer

Treatment for colon cancer can have a variety of side effects, depending on the type of treatment and the individual patient. Some common side effects of colon cancer treatment include:
                                                      
Fatigue: Many people feel very tired during and after cancer treatment.
 
Pain: Surgery and radiation therapy can cause pain and discomfort.
 
Nausea And Vomiting: Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can cause nausea and vomiting.
 
Diarrhea And Constipation: Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can cause changes in bowel habits.
 
Mouth Sores: Radiation therapy to the pelvis can cause sores in the mouth and throat.
 
Hair Loss: Chemotherapy can cause hair loss.
 
Skin Changes: Radiation therapy can cause skin changes and irritation in the treated area.
 
Lymphedema: Surgery to remove lymph nodes can cause lymphedema, which is swelling in the arms or legs.
 
Sexual Dysfunction: Surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy can cause sexual dysfunction.
 
Infertility: Some treatments can cause infertility in men and women.
 
Depression And Anxiety: Cancer and its treatment can cause emotional stress and mood changes.
 
It's important to note that not all patients will experience all of these side effects, and the intensity of the side effects can vary from patient to patient. Patients should discuss the potential side effects of treatment with their healthcare provider before starting treatment so that they can be prepared and any necessary measures can be taken to help manage them.

Treatment Team Of Doctors In Colon Cancer

A team of specialists typically works together to diagnose and treat colon cancer. The treatment team for colon cancer typically includes:
 
Gastroenterologist: a physician specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, including colon cancer.
 
Surgeon: a physician who specializes in the surgical treatment of colon cancer, including removal of the cancerous tumor.
 
Medical Oncologist: a physician who specializes in the use of chemotherapy and other medication to treat cancer.
 
Radiation Oncologist: a physician who specializes in the use of radiation therapy to treat cancer.
 
Pathologist: a physician who specializes in the examination of tissue samples to confirm the diagnosis of cancer and determine the stage of cancer.
 
Radiologist: a physician who specializes in the interpretation of imaging studies, such as CT scans and MRI, which are used to evaluate the stage of cancer and monitor treatment response.
 
Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant: A healthcare professional who can provide follow-up care and help coordinate treatment.
 
Cancer Care Coordinator: a healthcare professional who can assist patients and their families with coordinating appointments and navigating the healthcare system.
 
Social Worker: a professional who can provide emotional support and help patients and their families cope with the emotional and practical aspects of cancer treatment.
 
Dietitian: a professional who can help patients maintain a healthy diet during treatment, and manage side effects such as nausea and diarrhea.
 
It's important to note that not all patients require all of these specialists, but the treatment team will be tailored to the specific needs of each individual patient. The patient should be able to discuss the treatment plan and any concerns with the team.

Preventing Of Colon Cancer

Several steps can be taken to reduce the risk of colon cancer. Some ways to prevent colon cancer include:
 
Regular Screenings: Regular screenings, such as colonoscopies, can detect colon cancer early when it is most treatable. The American Cancer Society recommends that adults at average risk should start regular colon cancer screening at age 45, or earlier if they have a family history of the disease.
 
Eating a Healthy Diet: Eating a diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and low in red and processed meats may help reduce the risk of colon cancer.
 
Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of colon cancer, so maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can help reduce the risk.
 
Not Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of colon cancer, so quitting smoking can help reduce the risk.
 
Limiting Alcohol Consumption: Drinking alcohol in moderate amounts may increase the risk of colon cancer, so limiting alcohol consumption can help reduce the risk.
 
Staying Physically Active: Regular physical activity can help reduce the risk of colon cancer, as well as many other types of cancer.
 
Managing Chronic Conditions: Managing chronic conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and type 2 diabetes may help reduce the risk of colon cancer.
 
It's important to note that these steps are not guaranteed to prevent colon cancer, but they can help reduce the risk. Regular screenings are still essential to detect colon cancer early. It's also important to speak with a healthcare provider about individual risk factors, such as family history and lifestyle, to determine the best prevention plan.

Prognosis Of Colon Cancer

The prognosis (outlook) for colon cancer can vary depending on several factors, including the stage of cancer, the patient's overall health, and the patient's response to treatment. In general, the earlier colon cancer is diagnosed, the better the prognosis.
 The 5-year survival rate for colon cancer is about 90% when the cancer is caught in the early stages (stage 1) and has not spread to nearby lymph nodes. This drops to about 70% when the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes (stage 2) and about 40% when the cancer has spread to distant organs or lymph nodes (stage 3 and 4).
 
It's worth noting that prognosis is not an exact science and can't predict what will happen to an individual patient. Many factors can affect a person's prognosis, such as overall health and response to treatment. The patient should discuss the prognosis with their healthcare provider to get a better understanding of the situation.
 
Also, it's worth noting that there is a difference between survival and cure. A person can survive colon cancer but still have the risk of recurrence, so it's important to have regular check-ups and screenings to detect any recurrence early.
 
Treatment and research are continuously improving and advancing, which is leading to better outcomes for colon cancer patients. With early detection and proper treatment, many people with colon cancer can be cured or have a good quality of life.