How can colon cancer be prevented? While there are several risk factors, colon cancer is most often preventable if caught early. Having a family history of colon cancer should prompt regular screening and, if possible, surgery. If colon cancer is found in the early stages, treatment is less invasive and the chances of survival increase. In addition to screening, it is important to be active and to avoid binge drinking and obesity, which are associated with colon cancer.
Colon cancer is diagnosed when the cancer has spread beyond the colon’s mucosa and walls. It has spread to nearby tissues, lymph nodes, or organs. It is also known as Stage I. While this is rare, symptoms of colon cancer include persistent rectal bleeding, yellowish discoloration of the skin, and jaundice. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to visit a doctor.
Treatment options for colon cancer are numerous. While colon cancer can be cured in most cases, recurrences can be treated with more surgery. Additionally, chemotherapy drugs can help to cure colon cancer. Oxaliplatin and 5-fluorouracil are two common chemotherapy drugs. Despite their side effects, these drugs can help people live healthy lives and lead full and productive lives. The goal is to prevent colon cancer and its recurrences as much as possible.
Surgery for colon cancer can be very effective. About ninety percent of patients survive for at least two years after surgery. However, there is always the possibility of complications, including prolonged hospital stays and severe infections. One of the most common complication is wound infection at the site of the incision. This is treated by opening up the superficial layer of the wound. Then, gauze is applied to the wound on a daily basis to prevent infection. Other possible infections include urinary tract infections, pneumonias, and intra-abdominal infections.
While some polyps stay benign, others may turn cancerous. Typically, polyps are detected during colonoscopies. Polyps are surgically removed when they are detected. Polypectomy is often necessary if the tumors are cancerous. It is important to remember that the treatment options for colon cancer are many. Allina Health care providers are with you every step of the way. When the cancer cells grow too large, they may recur or spread to other parts of the colon.
The risk of developing colon cancer is greatly increased with age. In fact, most colon cancer cases occur after the age of 50. Consequently, the average age of diagnosis for men and women is 68 years and seventy for women. Therefore, older patients face additional challenges in treatment. So, it is important to consult a doctor if you experience persistent symptoms or notice any abnormalities. In addition to age, other factors include a family history of colon cancer.
Once the primary disease is eliminated, follow-up care is important. Even patients who undergo potentially curative surgery or chemotherapy still may develop a recurrence. This is especially true if the cancer is in the advanced stages. Routine checkups and imaging tests are important for detecting changes in the body. After surgery, patients will return for routine exams every 3-6 months. At least one year after surgery, a follow-up will be done to check for any polyps that may have returned.
