What Are The Symptoms And Treatment Methods Of Colon Cancer?

What Are The Symptoms And Treatment Methods Of Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide. It is more frequently seen in individuals aged 50 and above, both in men and women.

What is colon cancer?

 The large intestine, which is the last part of the digestive system connected to the anus, is an organ that is approximately 1.5 to 2 meters long. The large intestine consists of the colon and the rectum. So, what is the rectum? The rectum refers to the part of the large intestine where the last 12 centimeters of stool is stored before the anus. The colon, on the other hand, is the other part of the large intestine outside the rectum. Partially digested food coming from the small intestine is further broken down in the colon, where water and minerals are absorbed. The remaining waste is stored in the rectum and eliminated through the anus.

Colon cancer refers to the cancer that occurs in the colon section of the large intestine. If colon cancer is detected early, it can be completely cured. However, if it goes unnoticed in the early stages, this type of cancer can spread to nearby lymph nodes, organs such as the stomach and spleen, and other parts of the body through the bloodstream. For those wondering where the spleen is located, it can be found in the upper left quadrant of the abdomen, just below the diaphragm and next to the stomach.

What are the causes and risk factors of colon cancer?

Age factor: The risk of developing colon cancer increases in individuals in their 50s and 60s. People in this age group are at higher risk.

Genetic factors: If colon cancer is present in family members, the risk of developing colon cancer increases due to genetic predisposition. It is important for those with a family history of colon cancer to find out at what age their relatives were diagnosed and to undergo regular colonoscopies at least 10 years before that age. If there is no history of colon cancer in the family, colonoscopy should be performed starting from the age of 50.

Polyps: Polyps are abnormal growths that protrude into the intestinal canal by the abnormal enlargement of the lining of the colon. Polyps, which are benign tumors, can turn into cancer over time. Therefore, it is necessary to remove polyps and regularly undergo follow-up examinations.

Genetic disorders: Changes in the HNPCC gene increase the risk of developing colon cancer.

Inflammatory bowel diseases: Diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, which are seen as inflammatory conditions of the intestines, increase the risk of developing colon cancer.

Unhealthy lifestyle: Individuals who consume low-fiber foods, have harmful habits like smoking and alcohol consumption, have conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and lead a sedentary lifestyle, are at higher risk of developing colon cancer.

What are the symptoms of colon cancer?

The symptoms of colorectal cancer often manifest as changes in bowel habits. Persistent diarrhea or constipation, thinning of the stool, presence of blood in the stool or from the anus, and a mucus-like discharge resembling egg white are among the symptoms of colon cancer. As the cancer progresses, symptoms such as abdominal swelling and pain may be observed. Other indications of colon cancer include experiencing pain and straining during bowel movements, anemia due to iron deficiency, weight loss, and the formation of masses in the abdominal area.

How is colon cancer diagnosed?

In modern times, cancer and other tumorous formations in the colon and intestines can be easily diagnosed using endoscopic methods. The colonoscopy procedure allows for the early detection of tumor formation. Additionally, polyps that have the potential to become cancerous can be removed through colonoscopy, reducing the risk of cancer. Definitive diagnosis involves collecting stool samples from the patient for examination, conducting a colonography and computerized tomography (CT) scan, and obtaining tissue samples through endoscopy for pathological examination.

What are the treatment methods for colon cancer?

If polyps that have the potential to become cancerous are detected, they can be removed using colonoscopy as a preventive measure. If the cancer has advanced, surgical intervention becomes necessary, and the affected portion of the colon is removed. In cases where the disease has spread to neighboring areas, chemotherapy is administered. If the cancer has metastasized, treatment continues in an attempt to extend the patient’s lifespan.

How to prevent colon cancer?

Consuming fiber-rich foods, obtaining an adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D, maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in physical exercise and sports are important for preventing colon cancer. Additionally, regular screening tests should be conducted starting from the age of 50 to detect potential risks early and ensure successful treatment.

Who is at risk for colon cancer?

According to scientific research, colon cancer is more commonly observed in individuals over the age of 50. However, individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer are at risk regardless of their age, and they are advised to undergo regular screenings. Those who consume a protein-heavy diet also have a higher risk of colon cancer. Some studies indicate that individuals with vitamin D deficiency are at an increased risk of developing colon cancer. Another group at risk for colon cancer is individuals with diabetes. Research shows that the risk of colon cancer is higher in individuals with diabetes.

Is colon cancer genetic?

Cancer is a disease that occurs as a result of uncontrolled cell growth. In many cases, there is an influence of DNA damage in cells on the uncontrolled proliferation of cells. Therefore, like other types of cancer, colon cancer is more commonly seen in individuals who have a family history of colon cancer.

Is Colon Cancer Gender-Specific?

According to scientific research, men have a higher risk of developing colon cancer compared to women. When the distribution of colon cancer is examined by gender, it is the third most common cancer in men and the second most common in women.

Is Colon Cancer the Same as Rectal Cancer?

The colon and rectum are parts of the large intestine. They are distinct structures, but colon and rectal cancer share similarities in terms of symptoms, diagnostic methods, treatment approaches, and risk factors. Cancers occurring in these parts of the large intestine are collectively referred to as colorectal cancers.