About Colorectal Cancer
The causes of colorectal cancer are still not fully understood, but several hypotheses have been investigated. These include genetic and epigenetic changes, which can increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer.
Non-modifiable risk factors are factors that cannot be changed or controlled. The non-modifiable risk factors of colorectal cancer include:
- Age: The likelihood of colorectal cancer diagnosis increases after the age of 40 and rises sharply after the age of 50.
- Hereditary factors: About 5 to 10% of colorectal cancers are the result of genetic factors. Mutations in genes involved in DNA repair pathways, such as MLH1 and MSH2 genes, can be responsible for hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC).
- Family history: Having a close relative with colorectal cancer increases the risk.
Modifiable risk factors are factors that can be influenced or changed. The modifiable risk factors of colorectal cancer include:
- Diet and lifestyle: Bad nutritional habits, such as a Westernized diet high in processed meat and low in fruits and vegetables, can contribute to the development of colorectal cancer.
- Physical inactivity: Lack of regular exercise is associated with an increased risk.
- Obesity: Being overweight or obese increases the risk.
- Smoking: Cigarette smoking is a modifiable risk factor for colorectal cancer.
- Alcohol consumption: Heavy alcohol consumption is associated with an increased risk.
It's important to note that these risk factors can interact with each other and with genetic factors to influence the development of colorectal cancer. It's always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice on reducing your risk.
The most common early symptoms of colorectal cancer include:
- Rectal bleeding
- Changes in bowel habits that last for more than a few days, such as diarrhea or constipation
- Narrow, ribbon-like stool
- Blood in the stool, either visible or causing a change in color to black or dark brown
As colorectal cancer progresses or reaches later stages, the following symptoms may occur:
- Persistent cramps, pain, or aches in the abdominal and pelvic areas
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sensation of the bowel not emptying even after a bowel movement
- Fatigue and weakness
- Unintended or unusual weight loss
It's important to note that some people may not experience any symptoms in the early stages of colorectal cancer. If you notice any of these symptoms or have concerns about changes in your body, it is best to speak with a doctor. They can conduct tests to determine the cause and refer you to an oncologist for further evaluation if necessary.
To diagnose colorectal cancer, the following examinations, tests, and procedures are commonly performed:
- Colonoscopy: This procedure involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera into the rectum and colon to look for polyps or cancerous growths. Biopsies may be taken during this procedure for further analysis.
- Stool DNA testing: Stool samples can be tested for blood and/or changes in DNA that can be signs of cancer
- Biopsy: A small tissue sample of the colon lining is taken during a colonoscopy or other procedures to determine if it contains cancer cells.
- Barium enema: X-rays of the lower gastrointestinal tract are taken after a liquid containing barium is inserted into the rectum. This test can help identify abnormalities.
Additional examinations, tests, and procedures to determine the stage or severity of colorectal cancer may include:
- Computed tomography (CT) scan: This imaging test provides detailed cross-sectional images of the body to check for spread of cancer to nearby lymph nodes or other organs.
- Ultrasound: This test may be used to assess if cancer has spread to the liver and can also guide biopsies.
- Positive Emission Tomography (PET) scan: This imaging can show if there are signs of cancer in other parts of the body.
It's important to note that specific examinations, tests, and procedures may vary depending on individual circumstances. It's best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
The goals of treatment for colorectal cancer are as follows:
- Cure: For early-stage colorectal cancer, the goal is to cure the cancer by removing the cancerous tissue in the colon or rectum and destroying tumors in other parts of the body.
- Palliative Care: If a cure is not possible, the goal is to improve a person's quality of life and comfort. Palliative care aims to shrink tumors and slow their growth, providing relief from symptoms such as pain.
The treatments recommended for colorectal cancer include:
- Surgery: Surgery is the primary treatment for colorectal cancer that is limited to the colon. It aims to remove cancerous tissue, including tumors and affected lymph nodes, and prevent the cancer from spreading. Surgery may be open or laparoscopic, with robotic devices sometimes used during the procedure.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. It can be used before surgery (neoadjuvant chemotherapy) to shrink tumors, after surgery (adjuvant chemotherapy) to kill remaining cancer cells, or in advanced cases to control tumor growth and improve symptoms.
- Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays or other types of radiation to kill cancer cells or stop their growth. It may be used before surgery to shrink tumors or after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells.
- Health Behavior Changes: Making certain lifestyle changes can also play a role in treating colorectal cancer. These include adopting a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption.
It's important to note that specific medication types and therapies may vary depending on individual cases. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice on treatment options.
Medication dosing may be affected by many factors. Check with your health care professional about dosing for your individual situation.
Other side effects can occur. Check with your health care professional or read the information provided with your medication for additional side effect information.