This comprehensive guide explores colorectal cancer, highlighting its types, symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options. It emphasizes the importance of early detection and the role of specialists in managing the disease. Understanding these key insights can aid in prompt diagnosis and effective management of colorectal cancer.

Overview of Colorectal Cancer: Important Questions Answered

Colorectal cancer originates from abnormal cell growth in the lining of the colon or rectum, often beginning as benign polyps. While some polyps remain harmless, others can develop into malignant tumors over time. Cancer can also arise from tumors in the colon's tissues caused by excessive cell proliferation. Continue reading for crucial details about colorectal cancer.

What are the main types of colorectal cancer?

Adenocarcinomas – Representing roughly 95% of cases, these tumors develop from the glandular cells lining the colon and rectum.

These cancers start in the inner linings of the colon or rectum and can metastasize to organs such as the lungs or breasts.

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) – Tumors originating in the muscle layers of the colon wall, which may be benign or malignant (sarcomas).

Lymphomas – Cancers originating in lymphatic tissues, including lymph nodes associated with the immune system, which can develop in the colon or rectum. They are mainly classified as Hodgkin or non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Neuroendocrine tumors / Carcinoids – Slow-growing tumors that can form in the stomach, appendix, colon, rectum, small intestine, or lungs.

What symptoms indicate colorectal cancer?

Signs can be local or systemic, affecting different parts of the body.

Local symptoms:

Including:

Diarrhea

Constipation

Changes in bowel habits

Cramping and bloating

Inadequate bowel movements

Stools thinner than usual

Systemic symptoms:

Including:

Persistent fatigue and weakness

Unintentional weight loss

Nausea or vomiting

Anemia

Jaundice

Loss of appetite without obvious cause

What increases the risk?

Family history, personal health factors, lifestyle choices, and age are significant risk factors.

Unhealthy diet and sedentary lifestyle notably increase likelihood of developing colorectal cancer.

Men are generally at higher risk compared to women.

How is it treated?

Surgical removal: Excising the tumor along with surrounding tissue, lymph nodes, and parts of the colon or rectum, using techniques like laparoscopy or colostomy.

Radiation therapy: Employing high-energy X-rays to destroy cancer cells, via external beam or internal methods.

Chemotherapy: Using medications to slow or stop cancer growth and spread.

Specialists involved in treatment:

Gastroenterologist: Manages digestive system disorders.

Surgical oncologist: Performs cancer-removing surgeries.

Colorectal surgeon: Specializes in colon and rectal procedures.

Radiation oncologist: Provides radiation treatments.

Medical oncologist: Oversees chemotherapy and systemic therapies.

Tags: colon cancer symptoms, early detection, colon polyps causes, warning signs, treatment options, risk factors