Summary about Disease
Colorectal cancer is a cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. These organs are located in the lower part of your digestive system. It often begins as small, benign clumps of cells called polyps that form on the inside of the colon. Over time, some of these polyps can become cancerous. Colorectal cancer is a significant health concern, but it is often treatable, especially when detected early.
Symptoms
A persistent change in your bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation or a change in the consistency of your stool
Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool
Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas or pain
A feeling that your bowel doesn't empty completely
Weakness or fatigue
Unexplained weight loss
Causes
The exact cause of colorectal cancer is often unknown. However, several factors can increase your risk:
Older age: The risk increases with age.
Personal history: Having a personal history of colorectal cancer or polyps.
Family history: Having a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps.
Inflammatory bowel diseases: Chronic inflammatory diseases of the colon, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.
Certain inherited syndromes: Such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) and Lynch syndrome (hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer, or HNPCC).
Diet: A diet low in fiber and high in fat may increase risk.
Obesity: Being obese increases the risk.
Smoking: Smoking increases the risk.
Alcohol: Heavy alcohol use increases the risk.
Lack of physical activity: A sedentary lifestyle increases the risk.
Medicine Used
Treatment for colorectal cancer often involves a combination of the following:
Surgery: To remove the cancer.
Chemotherapy: To kill cancer cells.
Radiation therapy: To kill cancer cells.
Targeted therapy: Drugs that target specific abnormalities in cancer cells.
Immunotherapy: Drugs that help your immune system fight cancer. Specific medications used depend on the stage and location of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. Examples include:
Chemotherapy: 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), capecitabine, oxaliplatin, irinotecan.
Targeted therapies: Bevacizumab, cetuximab, panitumumab, regorafenib, encorafenib, fruquintinib.
Immunotherapy: Pembrolizumab, nivolumab.
Is Communicable
No, colorectal cancer is not communicable. It cannot be spread from one person to another.
Precautions
While colorectal cancer cannot be prevented entirely, you can take steps to lower your risk:
Screening: Regular screening starting at age 45 (or earlier if you have risk factors).
Diet: Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit red and processed meats.
Exercise: Get regular physical activity.
Weight: Maintain a healthy weight.
Smoking: Don't smoke.
Alcohol: Limit alcohol consumption.
How long does an outbreak last?
Colorectal cancer is not an outbreak. It is a disease that develops over time. The duration of the disease depends on the stage at diagnosis and the effectiveness of treatment.
How is it diagnosed?
Colonoscopy: A long, flexible tube with a camera attached is inserted into the rectum to view the entire colon.
Sigmoidoscopy: Similar to colonoscopy, but only examines the lower part of the colon.
Stool tests: Tests such as fecal occult blood test (FOBT), fecal immunochemical test (FIT), and stool DNA test (Cologuard) can detect blood or abnormal DNA in the stool.
Biopsy: A tissue sample taken during colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy is examined under a microscope.
Imaging tests: CT scans, MRI scans, and ultrasounds can help determine the extent of the cancer.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms can vary greatly. Some people may experience no symptoms in the early stages. When symptoms do appear, they may be subtle at first and worsen over time. It's crucial to seek medical attention if you notice any persistent changes in your bowel habits or other concerning symptoms.
Important Considerations
Early detection is crucial for successful treatment.
Screening guidelines may vary based on individual risk factors.
Treatment options are individualized based on the stage of the cancer and the patient's overall health.
A multidisciplinary team of specialists is typically involved in the care of patients with colorectal cancer.
Lifestyle modifications can play a role in reducing the risk of recurrence.