The treatment of colon cancer begins with a surgical procedure known as a colectomy. In this procedure, a surgeon removes the cancerous part of the colon. If there is no underlying disease, surgery can be an effective option in treating stage-II colon cancer. Patients with Stage-III colon cancer may be undergoing a partial colectomy or removing cancerous lymph nodes. The treatment also includes chemotherapy, and radiation is an option if a patient is not in good enough condition for surgery.
Other types of tests can detect a colon cancer diagnosis. Physical examination and rectal exam can identify a mass in the abdomen. A test called fecal occult blood may detect small amounts of blood in stools. The full colonoscopy can show the cancer if it has spread to other parts of the body. This test is not as effective as CT scans, but it can help physicians detect tumors in other areas of the body.
Treatment of stage-I colon cancer will depend on the type of cancer. There are several types of surgery, including a partial colectomy and a polypectomy. Surgery removes the affected part of the colon and removes cancer and any associated lymph nodes. The cancer cells are destroyed in the process, and the rest of the colon remains healthy. The patient will also be advised to keep a healthy weight and exercise. And of course, he or she will need to undergo routine screenings to check the progress of the cancer.
Genetic testing may also be recommended. While colon cancer cannot be cured, early detection can improve the patient’s chance of survival. Advancements in chemotherapy and surgical treatment of stage I, II, and III colon cancer can extend a patient’s life by up to 30 months. Genetic testing of the patient is also useful for predicting the outcome of a colon cancer diagnosis and helps individuals decide whether to undergo treatment or not. And if cancer is detected early enough, a colonoscopy can detect the condition and make treatment decisions accordingly.
Although most people will experience symptoms of colon cancer, it may take up to 10 years for polyps to develop into cancer. Getting a screening at an early stage is critical in the treatment of colon cancer, and should be part of a regular health care plan. And while a screening is an important first step, it is not necessary to undergo surgery. A physician can recommend a colonoscopy if a patient has symptoms of rectal or colon cancer.
If you have a family history of colon cancer, you have a greater risk of developing it as a result of a gene mutation. Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis are inherited syndromes that increase colon cancer risk. Another important factor is having a close family member with colon cancer. These can increase your risk and require treatment. You can also opt for a natural treatment for colon cancer. If you do get the right treatment, colon cancer will most likely not return.
