Colorectal Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the colon or rectum. It is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. In this blog, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, screening, diagnosis, and treatment options for colorectal cancer.

Causes: The exact cause of colorectal cancer is not known. However, there are certain risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing the disease, such as:

1. Age: The risk of developing colorectal cancer increases with age, and most cases are diagnosed in people over the age of 50.
2. Family history: Individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps are at higher risk.
3. Personal history: A personal history of colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or ovarian or breast cancer can increase the risk.
4. Lifestyle factors: Obesity, lack of physical activity, a diet high in red and processed meat, alcohol consumption, and smoking can all increase the risk of colorectal cancer.

Symptoms: Early stages of colorectal cancer may not show any symptoms. However, as the cancer progresses, the following symptoms may occur:

1. Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or a change in the consistency of stools.
2. Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool.
3. Abdominal discomfort, cramps, or pain.
4. Fatigue or weakness.
5. Unintended weight loss.
6. Narrow stools.
7. Feeling like you need to have a bowel movement that is not relieved by doing so.

Screening: Screening tests are available to detect colorectal cancer early when treatment is most effective. The American Cancer Society recommends that adults of average risk should begin regular colorectal cancer screening at age 45. However, those with a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps may need to begin screening at an earlier age.

Common screening tests for colorectal cancer include:

1. Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy is an exam in which a doctor uses a scope to look at the entire colon and rectum for abnormalities. If any polyps or tumors are found, they can be removed during the procedure.
2. Fecal occult blood test (FOBT): This test checks for the presence of blood in the stool. If blood is detected, further testing may be needed.
3. Stool DNA test: This test is designed to look for abnormal DNA that may be present in colon cells that are shed into the stool. If abnormal DNA is found, further testing may be needed.

Diagnosis: If screening tests indicate the presence of colorectal cancer, a biopsy is performed to confirm the diagnosis. A biopsy involves taking a small sample of tissue from the suspected tumor and examining it under a microscope to check for cancer cells.

Treatment: The treatment for colorectal cancer depends on the stage of the cancer and the patient’s overall health. Treatment options may include:

1. Surgery: Surgery is often the first treatment for colorectal cancer. The goal of surgery is to remove the cancerous tumor and any nearby lymph nodes.
2. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It may be given before or after surgery or as the primary treatment for advanced cases of colorectal cancer.
3. Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It is often used in conjunction with chemotherapy or surgery.

In conclusion, colorectal cancer is a common cancer that can be detected early through regular screening tests. Knowing the risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options can help individuals make informed decisions about their health and reduce their risk of developing or dying from colorectal cancer.