The early detection of colon cancer is crucial to survival. Because it can be a life-threatening disease, screenings and improved chemotherapy have increased the chances of survival. The University of Colorado Hospital offers comprehensive treatment options and a team approach to colon cancer treatment. The colorectal cancer multidisciplinary clinic, coordinated by Whitney Herter, draws together experts on colon cancer every week. It can help you detect early signs and symptoms of colon cancer, and find the best treatment option for your individual circumstances.
Genetics may play a role in the development of colon cancer. Certain gene mutations may increase the risk. Inheritance of familial adenomatous polyposis or Lynch syndrome may increase the risk. Other risk factors include personal or family history of colon cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and radiation therapy. Genetic factors can increase a person’s risk for colon cancer, but are unlikely to determine the development of the disease in a specific individual.
Surgery is often the main treatment for colon cancer in its early stages. Polypectomy, or polyp removal, involves removing the cancerous polyp from the colon. Colectomy, or colon resection, involves removing a portion of the colon, or the colon’s surrounding tissue. During the surgery, the surgeon may also remove nearby lymph nodes to reduce the risk of the cancer spreading. In some cases, a stoma may be created in order to prevent the cancer from spreading.
Screening for colon cancer should begin at age 50, although your physician may recommend screening earlier if you have a family history of colon cancer. Screening for colorectal cancer is crucial in saving lives. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, colon cancer is most likely to develop when healthy cells in the colon undergo mutations in their DNA, the instructions that cells follow. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, get a colonoscopy as soon as possible.
The survival rate of colon cancer depends on several factors. In particular, age is a major risk factor. While CRC is rare before the age of 40, incidence rates increase between the ages of 40 and 50. Each subsequent decade, the incidence rate increases. Moreover, acromegaly is one of the risk factors for colon cancer. While treatment is improving, early detection and prevention are still essential. If you are diagnosed with colon cancer, there is a good chance that you will be cured.
While there are no definitive ways to prevent colon cancer, there are some measures you can take to reduce your risk. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, wheat bran, and getting regular physical activity can help reduce your risk. Quitting smoking is another way to lower your risk of developing colorectal cancer. While smoking is not a risk factor for colorectal cancer, it can increase the risk of developing lung and colon cancer.
Screening for colon cancer can save the lives of many people. Screening is recommended at a young age, and early detection and treatment can save many lives. Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths for men and women combined, and the number of deaths is expected to reach 50 percent by 2030. The earlier you have your colon checked, the sooner it can be diagnosed. This is a crucial time to detect colon cancer. However, if you have symptoms, it’s time to schedule an appointment with your doctor.
