Cancer, Colon

Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the large intestine (colon) or rectum. It occurs when abnormal cells in the lining of the colon or rectum grow and multiply uncontrollably, forming a tumor.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of colon cancer is not known, but several factors can increase a person's risk of developing the disease. These include:

• Age: Colon cancer is more common in people over 50 years old.
• Family history: Having a family history of colon cancer or other cancers can increase a person's risk.
• Diet: A diet high in red meat and low in fiber may increase the risk of colon cancer.
• Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of colon cancer.
• Inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle can increase the risk of colon cancer.
• Smoking: Smoking tobacco can increase the risk of colon cancer.

Symptoms

The symptoms of colon cancer can vary depending on the location and size of the tumor. Common symptoms include:

• Blood in the stool or black, tarry stools
• Changes in bowel movements, such as diarrhea or constipation
• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Weakness or fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss

Diagnosis

Colon cancer is typically diagnosed using a combination of tests, including:

• Colonoscopy: A procedure in which a flexible tube with a camera and light on the end is inserted into the rectum to visualize the colon.
• Biopsy: A sample of tissue is removed from the tumor and examined under a microscope for cancer cells.
• Imaging tests: Such as CT scans or MRI scans, which can help determine the size and location of the tumor.

Treatment

The treatment for colon cancer depends on the stage and location of the tumor. Common treatments include:

• Surgery: To remove the tumor and surrounding tissue.
• Chemotherapy: To kill cancer cells that have spread to other parts of the body.
• Radiation therapy: To kill cancer cells that are left behind after surgery.

Stages

Colon cancer is typically staged using the TNM system, which takes into account the size and location of the tumor (T), the spread to nearby lymph nodes (N), and the presence of metastasis (M). The stages are:

• Stage 0: Cancer is limited to the lining of the colon.
• Stage I: Cancer has grown into the wall of the colon but has not spread to lymph nodes or other parts of the body.
• Stage II: Cancer has grown through the wall of the colon and may have spread to nearby tissues, but has not spread to lymph nodes or other parts of the body.
• Stage III: Cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes but has not spread to other parts of the body.
• Stage IV: Cancer has spread to other parts of the body, such as the liver or lungs.

Prevention

While there is no sure way to prevent colon cancer, there are several steps that can be taken to reduce the risk:

• Eat a healthy diet: High in fiber and low in red meat.
• Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per day.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of colon cancer.
• Don't smoke: Smoking tobacco can increase the risk of colon cancer.
• Get screened: Regular screening tests, such as colonoscopies, can help detect colon cancer in its early stages when it is most treatable.