Colorectal or Colon Cancer


Introduction: Almost everyone knows about this cancer now. Colon is the intestine, the part below which our food is digested and the food is called the colon or large intestine . And the part below that where stool is stored is called the rectum . Cancer of this part is called colorectal cancer. And this cancer is now a common disease.



Causes of colorectal or colon cancer?
There are certain risk factors for colorectal cancer. It is mainly hereditary. If someone in the family has cancer, the rest of the family members are likely to get it too. But the one that is said the most is the polyp in the colon (Colon Polyp) . If someone has a polyp in the colon, there is a risk that it will later turn into cancer.



If someone has high levels of constipation , there is a risk. Being constipated means that germs are in contact with the body for a longer period of time.




Lets know some bullet points it:

  • 1. Colorectal cancer can occur at any age. However, it is usually more common in people aged 50 and over.
  • 2. If you already have cancer or polyps in any part of the colon or intestine, it may spread later
  • 3. Various intestinal diseases such as infection, ulcer, intestinal inflammation etc. can turn into colon cancer if not treated properly
  • 4. People who smoke and consume alcohol are at higher risk. That goes for any type of cancer. Recent studies have shown that smokers are 30-40% more likely to develop colorectal cancer than non-smokers.
  • 5. Constipation occurs if the diet contains more meat than sugar. For example, eating too much beef, fast food, burgers or eating less vegetables can cause constipation. And being constipated means he is at risk of colon cancer.
  • 6. People with diabetes or those with insulin resistance are at higher risk.
  • 7. People who are overweight have a higher risk of developing and dying from colon cancer than people of normal weight.


Symptoms of Colorectal or Colon Cancer:
  • 1. Change in bowel habits.
  • 2. Diarrhea or constipation for at least four weeks or alternating bouts of diarrhea and constipation.
  • 3. Blood in the anus or stool.
  • 4. Abdominal discomfort such as gas, bloating, cramping, flatulence etc.
  • 5. Gradual weight loss.
  • 6. Anemia
  • 7. A feeling that the stomach is not completely empty even after a bowel movement.
  • 8. Cancer can spread from the colon to other parts of the body, such as the liver, causing pain. If it gets into the lungs it can cause coughing. Cancer cells can even spread to the bones.



Treatment of colorectal cancer

Proper treatment of this disease is possible if it is caught early. Colorectal cancer can be treated with a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. A recent study has made many advances in the treatment of colorectal cancer possible. In addition to this, new treatment methods such as the use of antibodies, gene therapy, blocking the blood flow of the tumor - the feasibility of treating colorectal cancer is being verified.




Be aware in preventing Colon Cancer:

  • 1. Lifestyle changes are important to protect yourself from the risk of colon cancer. Include a variety of fruits and vegetables in your daily diet. All these foods are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help prevent cancer.

  • 2. Avoid smoking and drinking. Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight.

  • 3. Treat those who think they are at risk, such as those with rectal polyps, quickly. Regular screening is essential if there is a family history of colon cancer.

  • 4. Even if the experts do not agree on how many days or how many tests should be done to screen for this disease, some tests can be done. Annual stool examination, regular full bowel examination helps in this.

Screening for colorectal cancer is low due to lack of awareness about the disease and not knowing the benefits of regular screening. As a result of which thousands of people are suffering from this deadly disease every year without their knowledge. Now is the time to become aware for the good health of yourself and your family.

Thank you