Overview
The colon, more commonly known as the large intestine, is where the body draws out water and salt from solid wastes. The waste then goes through the rectum and is secreted out.
Colon cancer is a malignant tumour that arises from the inner wall of the colon. It can happen at any age but affects older adults more often than younger ones. It usually begins as small, benign clumps of cells called polyps inside the colon.
Causes of Colon Cancer
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Inactive lifestyle
- Excessive consumption of processed meat and saturated fats
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Prior history of bowel diseases
- Genetic syndromes like familial adenomatous polyposis
Symptoms of Colon Cancer
- Rectal bleeding
- Abdominal discomfort
- Persistent cramps and pain
- Weakness
- Persistent change in your bowel habits (diarrhoea or constipation)
- Unexplained weight loss
Prevention of Colon Cancer
It’s important to understand what to do and what not to do to reduce the risk:
- Consume plenty of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
- Limit the consumption of red meat and saturated fats.
- Exercise regularly.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Avoid smoking.
Diagnosis of Colon Cancer
- Colonoscopy: Uses a long, flexible tube with a camera to view the colon and rectum.
- Blood tests: Check overall health and look for chemicals sometimes produced by colon cancer.
- CT Scans: Help identify the size and spread of the cancer within the body.
Treatment of Colon Cancer
Surgery
Surgeons can perform various types of surgeries for colon cancer based on factors such as the cancer stage, its location, and other complications.
Chemotherapy
Uses drugs to destroy cancer cells, usually done after surgery or if cancer has spread to lymph nodes. It helps kill remaining cancer cells and reduces the risk of recurrence.
Radiation Therapy
Uses high-power beams to destroy cancer cells. It can shrink larger tumors before surgery for easier removal and can be combined with chemotherapy.
Immunotherapy
A drug treatment that uses the patient’s immune system to fight cancer by helping it recognize and attack cancer cells.
Targeted Therapy
This treatment targets specific abnormalities within cancer cells using specialized drugs designed to block the molecules that help tumors grow.
Takeaway
Colon cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers when detected early. Adopting healthy lifestyle habits and undergoing regular screenings can significantly lower risks.
Awareness, early diagnosis, and proper treatment play a crucial role in improving survival rates and quality of life.