Colorectal Cancer (Colon Cancer): Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer?

Colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer or rectal cancer, often does not cause symptoms in its early stages. However, as the cancer progresses, it can cause a variety of symptoms. These may include:

1. Changes in bowel habits: Persistent diarrhea or constipation, or a change in the consistency of your stool, may be a sign of colorectal cancer.
2. Blood in the stool: Blood may be bright red or very dark, and it may be visible in the stool or make it appear black and tarry.
3. Abdominal discomfort: Cramps, gas, pain, or feeling full or bloated may occur.
4. Weakness or fatigue: Unexplained weakness, fatigue, or a feeling of tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest.
5. Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight without trying or without a clear reason.
6. Iron deficiency anemia: A low red blood cell count due to chronic blood loss from the digestive tract, which can result in fatigue and weakness.
7. Feeling that the bowel doesn’t empty completely: This sensation may be accompanied by a feeling of needing to have a bowel movement that is not relieved by doing so.
8. Nausea or vomiting: In some cases, colorectal cancer can cause nausea or vomiting.

It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by conditions other than colorectal cancer. However, if you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they persist or worsen over time, it’s important to see a healthcare provider for further evaluation and diagnosis. Early detection and treatment of colorectal cancer can greatly improve outcomes.

What are the causes of colorectal cancer?

Colorectal cancer, like many cancers, is thought to develop as a result of a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some of the known risk factors for colorectal cancer include:

1. Age: Colorectal cancer is more common in older adults, with the majority of cases occurring in people over the age of 50.
2. Family history: People with a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps are at an increased risk of developing the disease themselves. Inherited genetic mutations, such as those associated with Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), can also increase the risk.
3. Personal history of colorectal cancer or polyps: People who have previously had colorectal cancer or certain types of polyps are at an increased risk of developing the disease again.
4. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Chronic inflammatory conditions of the colon, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, can increase the risk of colorectal cancer.
5. Lifestyle factors: Certain lifestyle factors can increase the risk of colorectal cancer, including a diet high in red and processed meats, low in fiber, and high in fat; being overweight or obese; lack of physical activity; smoking; and heavy alcohol use.
6. Race and ethnicity: African Americans are at a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer than people of other races. Ashkenazi Jews also have a higher risk of colorectal cancer.
7. Certain hereditary syndromes: Inherited genetic syndromes, such as Lynch syndrome (hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer) and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), can significantly increase the risk of colorectal cancer.
8. Diabetes: People with diabetes have an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer.
9. Radiation therapy for cancer: Previous radiation therapy for certain cancers, such as prostate or cervical cancer, can increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer.

It’s important to note that having one or more risk factors does not mean that a person will definitely develop colorectal cancer. Many people with one or more risk factors never develop the disease, while some people with no known risk factors do. Regular screening for colorectal cancer is recommended for early detection and treatment.

What is the treatment for colorectal cancer?

The treatment for colorectal cancer depends on several factors, including the stage of the cancer, its location, and the overall health of the patient. Treatment options may include:

1. Surgery: Surgery is often the primary treatment for colorectal cancer. The type of surgery depends on the size and location of the tumor. It may involve removing the tumor and a portion of the colon or rectum (colectomy or proctectomy), nearby lymph nodes, and surrounding tissue.
2. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. It may be used before surgery (neoadjuvant chemotherapy) to shrink the tumor, after surgery (adjuvant chemotherapy) to kill any remaining cancer cells, or as the primary treatment for advanced colorectal cancer.
3. Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It may be used before surgery to shrink the tumor, after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells, or to relieve symptoms in cases of advanced colorectal cancer.
4. Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy drugs target specific molecules or pathways involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. They are often used in combination with chemotherapy for advanced colorectal cancer.
5. Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy uses the body’s immune system to fight cancer. It may be used in certain cases of advanced colorectal cancer.
6. Palliative care: Palliative care focuses on providing relief from symptoms and improving the quality of life for patients with advanced colorectal cancer. It may include pain management, nutritional support, and other therapies.

The specific treatment plan will be determined by a healthcare team based on the individual characteristics of the cancer and the patient. It’s important for patients to discuss their treatment options and goals with their healthcare providers to make informed decisions about their care.

What is the life expectancy of a person with colorectal cancer?

The life expectancy of a person with colorectal cancer depends on several factors, including the stage of the cancer at diagnosis, the effectiveness of treatment, the person’s overall health, and other individual factors.

Overall, the five-year relative survival rate for colorectal cancer is about 65% for all stages combined. However, this rate can vary widely depending on the stage of the cancer:

• For localized colorectal cancer (cancer that has not spread beyond the colon or rectum), the five-year relative survival rate is about 90%.
• For regional colorectal cancer (cancer that has spread to nearby lymph nodes or tissues), the five-year relative survival rate is about 71%.
• For distant colorectal cancer (cancer that has spread to distant organs or tissues), the five-year relative survival rate is about 14%.

It’s important to note that these are general statistics and may not accurately predict an individual’s prognosis. Many factors can influence a person’s outcome, and some people may have a better or worse prognosis than these statistics suggest. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve the chances of survival for people with colorectal cancer.