Understanding Colon Cancer

Answer 1

Colon cancer occurs when cancerous cells grow within the large intestine. The condition is also called colorectal cancer when it affects the rectum, or the last portion of the colon. Colon cancer occurs when cells begin growing out of control and spreading into the wall of the large intestine. Depending on how many cells are growing in the area or where they have spread, colon cancer may need to be treated with surgery, medications or both.

Colon cancer may initially develop through polyps, which are growths on the interior lining of the large intestine. Polyps are groups of cells that are considered pre-cancerous, meaning they have the potential to turn into cancerous cells. Polyps may grow, undetected, within the large intestine, causing few symptoms. For this reason, doctors recommend that everyone over the age of 50 receive regular screenings for colon cancer to rule out the presence of excess cell growth.

Initial symptoms of colon cancer include abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, fatigue and weight loss. Additionally, a person may complain of changes in bowel habits, such as consistent diarrhea or constipation. Most cases of colon cancer occur in people who are over 50. Other risk factors include African American race, smoking, obesity, or a history of gastrointestinal diseases, including Crohn's disease.

Colon cancer is treated depending on how much it has spread. Doctors may initially stage colon cancer according to the types of cells they find and if the cells are in other parts of the body, such as in the lymph nodes. This type of cancer is staged between Stage 0, meaning the cancerous cells remain in the lining of the colon to Stage 4, where the cancer has spread to other organs.

If the cancer is within the early stages, it may be treated by surgically removing affected portions of the colon. Cancerous cells that have spread to other areas may require surgery and chemotherapy or radiation. Some of the best prevention for colon cancer is regular screenings for polyps and monitoring for symptoms. Patients may also make healthy lifestyle choices, such as quitting smoking, moderating alcohol intake and eating diets that are high in fiber and low in fat, to reduce their overall risks of developing this serious illness.

Answer 2

The colon, which connects the small intestines to the rectum, is an important organ that disposes of waste to make bowels movements easier. The colon makes up a part of your large intestines. Your colon is also responsible for getting rid of water that is in the stool and acts as a storing place for solid stools. Colon cancer is a common form of cancer that begins in an individual's colon, and can spread to other parts of the body if not effectively treated.

Symptoms

Many patients do not show signs of colon cancer until it's in an advanced stage. Patients who do produce symptoms may suffer from blood in the stool, lower abdominal pain, thin stools, diarrhea, unexplained weight loss, bloating, and pelvic pain. The specific symptoms an individual experiences depends on the size and location of the cancer in the colon. Some people assume the symptoms are associated with hemorrhoids. Although the symptoms can relate to other conditions in the body, individuals experiencing these symptoms should immediately contact their doctor.

Risk Factors

Certain factors contribute to the development of colon cancer. Most individuals who develop colon cancer are older than age 60. Individuals of African American or European descent have a higher chance of developing colon cancer. An person that eats a diet high in red meats, has cancer in another part of the body, has a family history of colon cancer, or suffers from irritable bowel syndrome has an increased risk of developing colon cancer. Drinking alcohol and smoking cigarettes are also factors that can contribute to colon cancer.

Screening and Treatment

Colon cancer can usually be treated effectively when it's in the beginning stages. Individuals over age 60 should get regular screenings for colon cancer. A colonoscopy is an imaging test that allows a doctor to see your entire colon, and is the best way to check for colon cancer. Other tests may include a blood test to check for anemia and a liver function test. The treatment options for colon cancer include surgery to remove cancer cells or a portion of the colon, chemotherapy, or radiation.