What is Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal Cancer Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the colon or rectum, parts of the large intestine and the final sections of the digestive tract. It's often grouped together because of their similarities, even though each can develop slightly differently.
This cancer generally starts as small, benign clusters of cells known as polyps on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. Over time, some polyps can develop into cancer, but not all polyps are cancerous. Early detection, often through screening procedures like colonoscopies, can identify and remove polyps before they turn into cancer.
What is Screening?
A screening test is used to look for a disease when a person doesn't have symptoms. (When a person
has symptoms, diagnostic tests are used to find out the cause of the symptoms.)
By detecting potential issues early, screening allows for prompt treatment, which is generally more
successful in early stages. It can also prevent cancer by removing polyps before they develop into
cancerous growths. Regular screening significantly reduces both the chances of developing colorectal
cancer and the risk of dying from it.
Types of tests are used to screen for colorectal cancer:
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1. Stool Tests:
- Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT): Checks for hidden blood in stool.
- Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): Detects blood in stool with no dietary restrictions.
- Stool DNA Test (e.g., Cologuard): Looks for DNA mutations and blood in stool.
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2. Colonoscopy:
A colonoscopy is a medical procedure used to examine the inner lining of the large intestine (colon and rectum) to check for abnormalities like polyps, inflammation, or cancer. During the procedure, a doctor inserts a long, flexible tube with a tiny camera (called a colonoscope) through the rectum to view the entire colon. If polyps or suspicious areas are found, they can be removed or biopsied during the same procedure.
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3. Sigmoidoscopy:
A sigmoidoscopy is a procedure that examines the lower part of the large intestine, specifically the sigmoid colon and rectum. It’s similar to a colonoscopy but only covers a portion of the colon.
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4. CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy):
CT colonography, commonly known as virtual colonoscopy, is a non-invasive imaging procedure that uses computed tomography (CT) scans to create detailed images of the colon and rectum. It is used to screen for colorectal cancer and detect abnormalities like polyps or tumors.
Who Should be Screened?
Screening generally starts at age 45 for average-risk individuals but may begin earlier for those with higher risks, like a family history of colorectal cancer, certain genetic conditions, or inflammatory bowel disease.
Common symptoms of colorectal cancer:
Common symptoms of colorectal cancer can include:
- 1. Fatigue
- 2. Unexplained weight loss
- 3. Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
- 4. Changes in bowel habits (like diarrhea or constipation)
- 5. Abdominal discomfort, such as cramps or pain
Risk Factors of colorectal cancer:
Several factors can increase the risk, including:
- 1. Age: The risk increases significantly after age 50, with most cases occurring in people over 45.
- 2. Family History: A personal or family history of colorectal cancer or polyps can increase risk.
- 3. Physical Inactivity: Lack of regular physical activity is associated with a higher risk.
- 4. Alcohol Consumption: Heavy alcohol use is associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer.
- 5. Obesity: Being overweight or obese is linked to an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer.
Awareness of these risk factors can help individuals take preventive measures, such as regular screenings and lifestyle changes, to reduce their risk of developing colorectal cancer.