Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that affects the digestive tract. Because early detection offers the best hope of curing this cancer, understanding its risk factors and symptoms can help save lives. People in high-risk groups should make appropriate lifestyle changes and get screened for colorectal cancer at recommended intervals.
Definition
Colorectal cancer is defined as a type of cancer that starts in either the colon or the rectum. It is also known as colon cancer or cancer of the large bowel.
Often Starts with Pre-Cancerous Growths
While the exact cause of colon cancer is not known, physicians from the Mayo Clinic report that precancerous growths can eventually turn into colorectal cancer. These growths can appear in the form of inflammatory polyps, adenomas or hyperplastic polyps. These clumps of cells grow on the wall of the large bowel.
Can be Impacted by Diet
The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that most people with colorectal cancer are over 50 years old. However, colorectal cancer can affect anyone of any age. People with an immediate family history of cancer are at an increased risk for developing the disease. If someone has a history of polyps or has already had cancer of the colon, the risk for developing colorectal cancer in the future is increased. Cancer of the uterus, breast or ovaries is also a risk factor for colorectal cancer. Some risk factors for this disease can be reduced. Since colorectal cancer has been linked to diets that are high in fat and low in fiber, the American Cancer Society recommends eating at least five servings of fruits and vegetables each day, choosing whole-grain foods instead of refined grains and limiting intake of processed red meats. Fiber can be added to the diet by eating legumes, nuts, carrots, whole-grain breads, broccoli, apples, oranges and bananas.
Includes Specific Signs and Symptoms
Most of the signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer affect the digestive system. They include rectal bleeding, stomach pain, decreased appetite, diarrhea, constipation, narrowing of the stool and vomiting. General signs and symptoms such as jaundice, weakness and fatigue may also occur.
Can Be Treated
The American Cancer Society indicates that colorectal cancer may be treated with chemotherapy, monoclonal antibodies, radiation therapy or surgery. Two or more treatments may be used, depending on how advanced the cancer is. Surgery is often used in the early stages of colon cancer and involves removing the cancer and some normal tissue. Very early colorectal cancers may be removed with a colonoscope, which helps patients avoid the risks and recovery period of abdominal surgery. If radiation therapy is used, it may be administered in the form of external-beam radiation or internal radiation. These therapies can cause fatigue, nausea, diarrhea and irritation of the rectum or bladder. Chemotherapy involves the administration of oral or intravenous drugs used to kill cancer cells. This treatment causes unpleasant side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, hair loss, loss of appetite, easy bleeding and bruising, and severe fatigue.
Prognosis Depends on Early Detection
The prognosis for colorectal cancer depends on how early the disease is detected. The Merck Manual Home Edition cites a 90 percent cure rate when the cancer is found only in the lining of the colon. When cancer has extended through the wall of the bowel, the cure rate drops to 70 percent. The cure rate is only 30 to 50 percent if cancer has advanced to lymph nodes contained in the abdomen.
Detected Through Screening
Colorectal cancer prevention involves making lifestyle changes, avoiding substances linked to cancer development and getting regular colorectal cancer screenings. Since a diet that is low in fiber and high in fat and calories is associated with colorectal cancer, dietary changes should be made. The Centers for Disease Control recommends screening after the age of 50. The fecal occult blood test, which checks for blood in the stool, should be done yearly. Flexible sigmoidoscopy should be done at five-year intervals. Colonoscopy should be done every 10 years. People with an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer should be tested more frequently and should be screened at a younger age.
