Colon Cancer

Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that starts in the colon or rectum, which are parts of the large intestine. It usually begins as a small growth called a polyp, which may or may not be cancerous. Over time, some polyps can develop into cancer.

• Risk Factors: Several factors can increase the risk of developing colon cancer, including age (risk increases with age), a personal or family history of colon cancer or polyps, inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, a diet high in red and processed meats, obesity, smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, and a sedentary lifestyle.
• Symptoms: Early-stage colon cancer often does not cause symptoms, which is why screening is crucial for early detection. As the cancer progresses, symptoms may include changes in bowel habits (such as diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool), rectal bleeding or blood in the stool, abdominal discomfort or pain, unexplained weight loss, weakness or fatigue, and a feeling that the bowel does not empty completely.
• Diagnosis: Diagnosis of colon cancer typically involves a combination of screening tests and diagnostic procedures. Common screening methods include colonoscopy, fecal occult blood tests (FOBT), fecal immunochemical tests (FIT), and stool DNA tests. If abnormalities are detected during screening, further diagnostic tests such as colonoscopy with biopsy, imaging studies (e.g., CT scan, MRI), and blood tests may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the cancer.
• Treatment: Treatment for colon cancer depends on several factors including the stage of the cancer, its location, and the overall health of the patient. Common treatment options may include surgery to remove the cancerous tissue (often along with nearby lymph nodes), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. In some cases, a combination of these treatments may be recommended.
• Prognosis: The prognosis for colon cancer varies depending on the stage at which it is diagnosed and treated. Early-stage colon cancer that is confined to the inner layers of the colon or rectum generally has a better prognosis than cancer that has spread to nearby lymph nodes or distant organs. Regular screening can help detect colon cancer at an early stage when treatment is most effective.