ColomboSurgeon
Colo rectal cancer
Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. These are parts of your digestive system.
What is colorectal cancer?
- Colon: The large intestine, where water and nutrients are absorbed from food.
- Rectum: The lower end of the colon, where stool is stored before it leaves the body.
Colorectal cancer often starts as small, non-cancerous growths called polyps. Over time, some of these polyps can turn into cancer.
Risk factors
While anyone can develop colorectal cancer, certain factors can increase your risk:
- Age (over 50)
- Family history of colorectal cancer
- Certain types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Obesity
- Smoking
- High-fat, low-fiber diet
Symptoms
- Early colorectal cancer often has no symptoms.
As the cancer grows, you might experience:
- Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or both)
- Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool
- Abdominal pain or cramps
- Weakness or fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
Screening and prevention
Regular screenings are crucial for early detection and prevention.
Recommended screenings include:
- Colonoscopy
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy
- Stool tests
A healthy lifestyle can also reduce your risk:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Limit red and processed meat
- Engage in regular physical activity
- Avoid smoking
Treatment
Treatment options depend on the stage of the cancer and your overall health.
Common treatments include:
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Targeted therapy
- Immunotherapy
