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Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal Cancer- A guide to Symptoms, Risks, Prevention and Cure
Colorectal Cancer- Causes, Symptoms, Prevention and Cure
Colorectal cancer starts in the colon or rectum and is one of the leading causes of cancer worldwide. It usually develops from polyps, small growths in the intestine, which can turn cancerous over time. Because it often grows quietly, regular screening is one of the most powerful tools for prevention and early detection.
As a medical oncologist, I’ve seen how early screening — such as colonoscopies — can save lives by catching colorectal cancer before it spreads. When detected early, treatment is often highly effective.
By choosing to learn more, you’re already taking an important step toward reducing your risk and encouraging timely screening.
What is Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer develops when abnormal cells in the lining of the colon or rectum grow uncontrollably and form tumors. These tumors can invade nearby tissues and, in advanced stages, spread to other parts of the body such as the liver and lungs.
Types of Colorectal Cancer
Adenocarcinomas: The most common type, starting in the glandular cells lining the colon and rectum.
Carcinoid tumors: Begin in hormone-producing cells of the intestine.
Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs): Rare tumors that start in the connective tissue of the colon.
Lymphomas and sarcomas: Rarely occur in the colon or rectum but are possible.
Signs and Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer may not cause symptoms in the early stages, which is why screening is important. When symptoms appear, they may include:
Blood in stool (bright red or dark)
Persistent changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of stool)
Abdominal pain, cramping, or bloating
A feeling of incomplete bowel emptying
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue or weakness
Anemia (low red blood cell count) detected on blood tests
Risk Factors for Colorectal Cancer
Factors that increase the risk of colorectal cancer include:
Age (risk increases after 50)
Family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
Inherited syndromes (e.g., Lynch syndrome, familial adenomatous polyposis)
Diet high in red or processed meats and low in fiber
Physical inactivity
Obesity
Smoking and heavy alcohol use
Type 2 diabetes or chronic inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis)
Colorectal Cancer Screening
Colorectal cancer is one of the few cancers that can be detected and prevented through regular screening:
Colonoscopy: Gold standard test, allows doctors to view the colon and remove polyps.
Stool tests (FIT, FOBT, DNA tests): Detect hidden blood or abnormal DNA in stool.
Sigmoidoscopy or CT colonography: Imaging-based screening options.
Note: Screening is recommended starting at age 45 (earlier if high risk).
When to See a Doctor?
Consult a healthcare provider if you notice:
Blood in your stool
Persistent changes in bowel habits
Abdominal pain that does not resolve
Unexplained fatigue or weight loss
Treatment for Colorectal Cancer
Treatment depends on the stage and location of cancer, overall health, and patient preference:
Surgery: To remove cancerous parts of the colon/rectum; often the first step.
Chemotherapy: Used before or after surgery to kill cancer cells.
Radiation therapy: Commonly used in rectal cancers.
Targeted therapy: Drugs that attack specific proteins in cancer cells.
Immunotherapy: Effective in certain advanced colorectal cancers with specific genetic changes.
Some Facts vs Myths about Colorectal Cancer
Myth: Only older people get colorectal cancer.
Fact: While risk increases with age, colorectal cancer is rising in younger adults.Myth: If you have no symptoms, you don’t need screening.
Fact: Cancer can be present without symptoms; screening can detect it early or prevent it.Myth: Colorectal cancer is always fatal.
Fact: When detected early, colorectal cancer is highly treatable, and survival rates are excellent.Myth: A colonoscopy is always painful and dangerous.
Fact: Colonoscopies are safe, usually painless under sedation, and can save lives by removing precancerous polyps.
