Colorectal Cancer

Irregular pain in your abdomen? This could be a sign of cancer related to the intestines.

Have you ever wondered what colorectal cancer (Colon and Rectal Cancer) is and how it affects your body? In this post, we’ll explain everything in simple words, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments. Colorectal cancer is a serious illness, but it can often be treated successfully if found early.

Summary

Colorectal cancer happens when abnormal cells in the colon or rectum grow out of control, forming a tumor. It can cause changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, and stomach pain. This condition can be diagnosed through screening tests and treated with surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation, depending on its stage.

Colorectal cancer can develop due to a combination of genetic factors, age, and lifestyle choices. Some common causes include a diet high in red meat, lack of exercise, and family history.

The symptoms often include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain, and fatigue.

Doctors diagnose colorectal cancer through tests like colonoscopy, biopsy, and blood tests. Early detection is critical for successful treatment.

Facts

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Symptoms

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Causes

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Diagnosis

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Treatments

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Treatment Options and Outcomes

It is important for patients and doctors to know about the different treatments for colorectal cancer. This table explains the main treatments, how they are used, their common side effects, and expected results, helping patients make better decisions.

Treatment	Indications	Common Side Effects	Expected Outcomes
Surgery	Early-stage cancer, localized tumors	Pain, infection, bowel changes	Potentially curative if localized
Chemotherapy	Advanced or metastatic cancer	Nausea, fatigue, hair loss	Can shrink tumors, prolong survival
Radiation Therapy	Rectal cancer or inoperable tumors	Skin irritation, fatigue, bowel issues	Tumor shrinkage, symptom control
Targeted Therapy	Advanced cancer with specific mutations	Diarrhea, high blood pressure, fatigue	Tumor control, slow progression
Immunotherapy	Advanced cancer with immune markers	Immune-related side effects (inflammation)	Long-term tumor control in some patients

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Frequently Asked Questions

When is colonoscopy required?

A colonoscopy is needed for people over 50 or earlier if someone in the family has had colorectal cancer. It is also suggested if you have symptoms like bleeding from the rectum, constant stomach pain, or sudden weight loss.

Is colorectal cancer hereditary?

Yes, colorectal cancer can run in families. Conditions like FAP or Lynch syndrome increase the risk. If colon cancer runs in your family, you may need earlier screening.

Can colorectal cancer cause back pain?

Sometimes, colorectal cancer can cause back pain if it spreads to other organs or the spine. But back pain is usually a late symptom, not an early one.

Can colorectal cancer be treated?

Yes, colorectal cancer can be treated, especially when found early. Common treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and sometimes targeted or immunotherapy.

Where is colon cancer located?

Colon cancer happens in the large intestine, which includes the colon and rectum. It can appear in any part of the colon, such as ascending, transverse, descending, or sigmoid sections.

How common is colon cancer in India?

Colon cancer is becoming more common in India, though it is still less frequent than in Western countries. The increase is linked to changes in food habits, lifestyle, and aging.

Is colon and rectal cancer the same?

Colon and rectal cancer are similar but not the same. Colon cancer affects the large intestine, while rectal cancer happens in the lower part of the intestine, called the rectum.

How much time does colon cancer take to develop?

Colon cancer takes many years to grow. It often starts as small, harmless polyps that can turn into cancer over 10 to 15 years. This is why regular screening is important.

How does colorectal cancer develop?

Colorectal cancer starts when abnormal cells in the colon or rectum form polyps. Over time, these polyps may turn into cancer due to genetic changes, lifestyle habits, or family history.

Written by

Dr. Harsh Shah

MS, MCh (G I cancer Surgeon)

Dr. Harsh Shah is a renowned GI and HPB Robotic Cancer Surgeon in Ahmedabad.

Reviewed by

Dr. Swati Shah

MS, DrNB (Surgical Oncology)

Dr. Swati Shah is a Robotic Uro and Gynecological Cancer Surgeon in Ahmedabad.

5/5 - (9 reviews)