Colon Cancer

🧬 What Is Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer occurs when cells in the lining of the colon begin to grow uncontrollably, forming polyps that may eventually become cancerous. Not all polyps are cancerous, but some types — especially adenomatous polyps (adenomas) — can develop into cancer over time if not removed.

⚠️ Symptoms

In the early stages, colon cancer might not cause any symptoms. As it progresses, symptoms can include:

• Persistent changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation

• Blood in the stool (bright red or very dark)

• Abdominal discomfort, like cramps, gas, or pain

• Weakness or fatigue

• Unexplained weight loss

• A feeling that the bowel doesn’t empty completely

🧪 Causes and Risk Factors

While the exact cause of colon cancer isn’t always known, several risk factors increase the likelihood:

Modifiable Risk Factors:

• Diet high in red or processed meat

• Low-fiber, high-fat diets

• Sedentary lifestyle

• Smoking and alcohol use

• Obesity

Non-Modifiable Risk Factors:

• Age: Risk increases after age 50

• Family history of colon cancer or polyps

• Inherited syndromes like Lynch syndrome or FAP (Familial Adenomatous Polyposis)

• Personal history of inflammatory bowel diseases (e.g., Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis)

🧫 Diagnosis

Common methods to diagnose colon cancer include:

• Colonoscopy: Most effective tool for detection and removal of polyps

• Stool tests: Such as FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test) or gFOBT (guaiac-based Fecal Occult Blood Test)

• CT colonography: A less invasive imaging test

• Biopsy: Sample of tissue taken during colonoscopy for lab testing

🏥 Stages of Colon Cancer

Staging helps determine how far the cancer has spread:

• Stage 0: Confined to inner lining of colon

• Stage I–II: Local growth, no lymph node involvement

• Stage III: Spread to nearby lymph nodes

• Stage IV: Spread (metastasized) to other organs like the liver or lungs

💊 Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the stage and location of the cancer:

• Surgery: Removal of cancerous section of the colon (colectomy)

• Chemotherapy: Drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth

• Radiation therapy: Often used if the cancer is in the rectum

• Targeted therapy: For advanced cancers using drugs that target specific cancer cell mechanisms

• Immunotherapy: For some cases, especially those with specific genetic markers (e.g., MSI-H)

✅ Prevention and Screening

Regular screening can prevent colon cancer or catch it early when it’s most treatable:

• Begin routine screening at age 45, or earlier if you have risk factors

• Healthy lifestyle choices like:

  • Eating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

  • Staying physically active

  • Maintaining a healthy weight

  • Limiting alcohol and not smoking