Colorectal tumors form in the colon or rectum, the end of the digestive tract. Colorectal tumors may begin as noncancerous polyps and develop into cancer over time. Polyps can be detected through a variety of screening methods and when caught early, many colorectal tumors are treatable through removal of the cancerous tissue.
Symptoms
According to MayoClinic.com, some people who develop colorectal tumors exhibit no symptoms, especially in the early stages. Individuals who do experience symptoms frequently report changes in bowel movements and rectal bleeding. Abdominal cramps or gas may also be a sign of colorectal tumors. Some people may develop unexplained weight loss, fatigue or weakness.
Risk Factors
The precise causes of colorectal tumors remains a mystery, but there are some known risk factors. Age is a factor in the development of colorectal tumors, with people over 50 developing 90 percent of diagnosed colon and rectal tumors, explains MayoClinic.com. Polyps found in the lower intestines raise the risk of developing colon tumors. Some hereditary conditions may increase the likelihood of these polyps and therefore raise the risk of colorectal cancer. Diabetes, obesity, smoking, a sedentary lifestyle and a diet high in fat and low in fiber are all potential contributors to colorectal cancer development.
Screening
According to the National Cancer Institute, all individuals over the age of 50 should be screened for colorectal polyps that may lead to cancerous tumors and individuals at high risk for colorectal tumors may benefit from screenings before age 50. A colonoscopy, in which a thin flexible tube with a camera attached is inserted into the colon, is the primary method of diagnosing colorectal tumors before they become deadly. Other screening tests include fecal occult blood tests, which look at the stool for signs of blood, and a barium enema, which uses X-rays to visualize the colon after inserting a barium dye mixture.
Treatment
Treatment of colorectal tumors begins with surgical removal of the tumor. Surgery may be done through the anus or through a cut in the abdominal wall, either as open surgery or through the use of laparoscopy. Radiation therapy that destroys cancerous cells by directing precise beams of radiation at them is another option. If the cancer is aggressive or the doctor suspects that it may have spread to other areas of the body, chemotherapy or biological therapy may be used.
Prevention
Eating a diet high in whole grains, fruits and vegetables and low in saturated fat may help protect against colorectal cancer. People should ensure an intake of at least 25 grams of fiber every day. Maintaining a healthy weight and exercising a minimum of 30 minutes each day may also have a protective effect. For people who are at high risk, daily intake of aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or COX-2 inhibitors may help prevent the development of tumors in the colon and rectum.
