Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the large intestine or the rectum. Although other types of cancer can occur in the colon, they are relatively rare. The colon is a tube-like organ that absorbs water and food, and materials pass through it via the cecum. The colon also has four distinct sections: the ascending colon, the transverse colon, the descending segment, and the sigmoid section.
The survival rate for colon cancer is based on survival rates for people who had the same type of colon cancer and stage five years ago. Several factors affect survival rates, including overall health, cancer type, and age. Early detection and treatment are crucial to improving the outlook for colon cancer. While there are currently no known cures for colon cancer, it is possible to improve survival rates with ongoing research. There are various methods available to treat colon cancer, including surgery and targeted therapies.
In early stages of colon cancer, many people don’t show any symptoms. This is why screening is recommended after age 45, and even earlier if you have a family history. However, if you’ve had any of the symptoms for more than a few weeks, it’s time to consult a gastroenterologist. If you’re over 45, contact your local Adult Gastroenterology Associates to learn about their treatment options.
While colon cancer is a fatal disease, it can be controlled by several treatments. Early diagnosis is the key to preventing the cancer from spreading to other parts of the body. Depending on the stage of the disease, treatment methods may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Some cancers may require radiation therapy to relieve symptoms. There are many types of treatments available for colon cancer, so you should see a doctor if you think you may have any symptoms.
Surgical treatment for CRC includes both surgery and radiation. Patients with high risk of colon cancer should have a sigmoidoscopy. During a sigmoidoscopy, the doctors will examine a much smaller area of the colon. It is possible to find polyps by this technique, which might prevent a full colonoscopy. The imaging process for sigmoidoscopy utilizes a liquid called barium. The results of the X-ray are much clearer with a sigmoidoscopy. During the X-ray, patients are often required to stop eating for about four hours.
Although colon cancer is most common in older people, rates are on the rise in young adults. Smoking and drinking alcohol are also risk factors for colon cancer. Those with inflammatory bowel conditions and African-American ethnicity are more likely to develop colon cancer. People with a family history of the disease are at greater risk. However, a high fiber diet may reduce your risk. Lastly, colon cancer screening tests can detect the disease early. The earlier it is detected, the better.
Surgery for colon cancer can involve the removal of the entire colon, which may include the cecum, the ascending colon, and the sigmoid colon. The stoma is a surgical opening in the abdominal wall through which waste and stool are expelled. The stoma is also called a colostomy. Endoscopy, which involves the use of a light and camera, can also remove small polyps and cancerous tissue.
