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Colorectal cancer is a diagnosis that invokes fear and anxiety, rightfully so, as it stands as the second leading cause of cancer-related death among both men and women. However, it is often preventable and frequently treatable if diagnosed early. In this blog post, we bring awareness to the types, symptoms, and diagnosis methods of colorectal cancer.
Synopsis
Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer is the collective term referring to cancer in the colon or rectum, often grouped due to their similarities. It is the third most prevalent type of cancer globally. The cancer predominantly affects older age groups often above 50 years of age. With no early warning signs, screening is crucial for diagnosing cancer. In India, colorectal cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers and has been on the rise. By creating awareness, we can reduce the risk of this cancer.
Colorectal cancer often begins as an abnormal growth (polyps) in the colon or rectum. High intake of processed meat, low intake of fruits and vegetables, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and smoking contribute to increased colorectal cancer risk. Unfortunately, most colorectal cancers are diagnosed at advanced stages when treatment options are limited. Screening helps find the tumour at an early stage. Therefore, all adults above 45 must undergo screening.
Types of Colorectal Cancer
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Adenocarcinoma: This is the most common type of colorectal cancer originating in the cells that make mucous lubricating the colon and rectum. A subtype, namely signet ring and mucinous, has the worst prognosis.
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Carcinoid tumours: This tumour originates from the special hormone-making cell in the intestine
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Gastrointestinal stromal tumours: The tumour begins from nerve cells in the wall of the gastrointestinal tract. These tumours are common in the stomach and small intestine. Some tumours are benign, while others are cancerous
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Lymphomas: These cancers originate in the immune system cells. The cancer mostly originates from the lymph nodes but can also originate in the colon, rectum, or other organs
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Sarcomas: This form of cancer can originate from blood vessels and muscle layers of connective tissues of the colon or rectum. It is one of the rare types
Symptoms
At initial stages, colorectal cancer does not present any symptoms. Therefore, one must undergo regular screening to catch the disease early.
- Bowel changes, which include constipation, diarrhoea, and narrowing of stool
- Blood in stool which can be bright red, dark, or tar-like
- Persistent abdominal cramps, pain, or bloating
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue and tiredness, even after adequate rest
- Anaemia caused by chronic bleeding
If you experience any of the above symptoms of colon cancer, consult your doctor immediately.
Diagnosis
A cancer diagnosis can be a tedious process requiring patience. Any individual presenting with symptoms of colon cancer or an abnormal screening test must undergo examination and tests.
The diagnosis process for colorectal cancer includes:
- Medical history and physical exam
- Blood tests
- Diagnostic colonoscopy
- Proctoscopy
- A biopsy confirms a cancer diagnosis and molecular testing of the sample is done to characterise the cancer type.
- Imaging tests such as PET, CT, ultrasound, and MRI
- A chest X-ray to check whether cancer has spread to the lungs
Colorectal Cancer Treatments
Colorectal cancer is most treatable at early stages. Surgery, Chemotherapy, and Radiotherapy help treat the cancer. Ablation and Chemoembolization techniques are sometimes used to treat cancer that has spread to other body parts. Consult our cancer care hospital in Dhakuria if you need Colorectal Cancer Treatments.
Conclusion
Colorectal cancer is increasingly being diagnosed among young people owing to poor lifestyle habits. Regular screening can identify cancer early and a healthy lifestyle can reduce the incidence and impact of colorectal cancer. The cancer is treatable when diagnosed early. Manipal Hospitals focuses on the key lifestyle factors causing colorectal cancer. We provide cancer screening and a comprehensive approach to cancer treatment.
FAQ's
Colorectal cancer begins in the innermost lining of the colon or rectum, where a mutation creates a polyp. These polyps have the potential to turn cancerous. If untreated, colorectal cancer can spread to other body parts.
Men and women aged 50 years and above are at risk for colorectal cancer. Any individual with a family history of colorectal cancer or polyp is at higher risk.
Regular screening can reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Screening tests help look inside the colon and rectum to see if polyps need to be removed. In many cases, doctors remove the polyps that can turn cancerous.
Screening tests help find and remove polyps before they turn cancerous, or to find a polyp before they turn cancerous. Several screening options exist which include faecal occult blood test (FOBT), flexible sigmoidoscopy, double contrast barium enema, and colonoscopy.
The five-year survival rate for colorectal cancer is 90% if diagnosed and treated early. If left untreated, the survival rate drops due to the tumours metastasising to various body parts.
To schedule an appointment at Manipal Hospitals, contact our oncology department or visit our website.
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