Colon and Rectal Cancer - Treatments, Symptoms, Causes

Colon and Rectal Cancer - Treatments, Symptoms, Causes

What is Colorectal Cancer? What are the causes and treatment options?

Colorectal cancer, which includes colon cancer and rectal cancer, is a type of cancer that develops in the colon or rectum. It is the third most common cancer worldwide and is responsible for many cancer-related deaths. In this article, we will discuss the stats, types, symptoms, causes-risk factors, imaging methods, prevention, and treatments, including targeted therapy and immunotherapy for colorectal cancer.

Colorectal cancer is the third most common type worldwide, accounting for approximately 10% of all cancer cases. In 2020, there were an estimated 1.93 million new cases of colorectal cancer worldwide, with approximately 935,000 deaths. It is more common in men than women, and the incidence increases with age.

Colorectal cancer is classified into several types based on the location of the tumor and the type of cells that cancer originates from. The most common types of colorectal cancer are adenocarcinomas, which develop from the cells that line the colon and rectum. Other rare types of colorectal cancer include carcinoid tumors, gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), and lymphomas.

Symptoms

The symptoms of colorectal cancer may not manifest in the early stages, but as the cancer progresses, the following symptoms may occur:

  • Changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation
  • Blood in the stool
  • Abdominal pain or discomfort
  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Rectal bleeding
  • Anemia

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact causes of colorectal cancer are unknown, but several risk factors have been identified, including:

  • Age: The risk of colorectal cancer increases with age.
  • Personal or family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
  • A diet high in red meat and processed foods
  • Obesity
  • Lack of physical activity
  • Smoking
  • Heavy alcohol consumption

Imaging Methods

Several imaging methods can be used to diagnose colorectal cancer, including colonoscopy, computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET) scans. Biopsies can also be performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Prevention

Several preventative measures can be taken to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, including:

  • Regular screenings: Screening tests can detect colorectal cancer in its early stages, allowing for prompt treatment and a better prognosis. The American Cancer Society recommends that people at average risk of colorectal cancer begin regular screening at age 45.
  • A healthy diet: Eating a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and low in red meat and processed foods can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.
  • Regular exercise: Regular physical activity can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.
  • Quitting smoking can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.

Treatments

The treatment options for colorectal cancer depend on the stage and severity of the cancer. The main treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.

Surgery is the primary treatment for colorectal cancer if the cancer has not spread to other parts of the body. The surgical procedure involves removing the cancerous tumor and a portion of the surrounding tissue.

Radiation therapy involves using high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It is often used in conjunction with surgery or as a palliative treatment to relieve symptoms.

Chemotherapy involves using drugs to kill cancer cells. It is typically used in cases where surgery and radiation therapy are not viable options.

Targeted therapy involves using drugs that specifically target cancer cells without affecting healthy cells. This treatment is often used in cases where chemotherapy is not effective.

Immunotherapy involves using drugs that stimulate the body's immune system to fight cancer cells. It has shown promising results in some cases of colorectal cancer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, colorectal cancer is a serious health condition that requires prompt medical attention. While the exact causes of colorectal cancer are unknown, several risk factors have been identified, and several preventative measures can be taken to reduce the risk of developing the disease. If you are experiencing symptoms of colorectal cancer, seek medical attention immediately to increase your chances of successful treatment. With early detection and treatment, the prognosis for colorectal cancer can be positive, and new and promising treatments offer hope for patients with this type of cancer.