Colon cancer is most closely associated with which of the following conditions
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Colorectal cancer is preventable and highly curable if detected in early stages. The colon and rectum make up your large intestine. Colorectal cancers usually begin as a growth on the inner lining of the large intestine Show FACTS AND STATSIn 2020, an estimated number of 147,000 new colorectal cancer cases are expected to be diagnosed and an estimated number of 53,000 deaths are expected to occur. About 1 in 20 Americans will develop colorectal cancer in their lifetime. Colorectal polyps (benign abnormal growths) affect about 20% to 30% of American adults. RISK FACTORSThe exact cause of colorectal cancer is unknown. Physicians often cannot explain why one person develops this disease and another does not. However, the understanding of certain genetic causes continues to increase. The following factors can increase the risk of colorectal cancer.
PREVENTIONColorectal cancer is preventable. Nearly all cases of colorectal cancer develop from polyps. They start in the inner lining of the colon and most often affect the left side of the colon and rectum. Detection and removal of polyps through colonoscopy reduces the risk of colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer screening recommendations are based on medical and family history. Screening typically starts at age 45* in patients with average risk. Those at higher risk are usually advised to receive their first screening at a younger age. While it is not definitive, there is some evidence that diet may play a significant role in preventing colorectal cancer. A diet high in fiber (whole grains, fruits, vegetables and nuts) and low in fat, nitrates, and processed meats is the only dietary measure that may help prevent colorectal cancer. *In 2018, secondary to new data on the increased risks of colon cancer in those under 50, the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgery changed recommendations to consider starting screening at age 45. COLORECTAL CANCER SYMPTOMSColorectal cancer is usually asymptomatic in its early stages and is detected during routine screenings. It is important to note that other common health problems can cause some of the same symptoms. For example, hemorrhoids are a common cause of rectal bleeding, but do not cause colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer symptoms include:
Abdominal pain and weight loss are typically late symptoms, indicating possible extensive disease. Anyone who experiences any of the above symptoms should see a physician as soon as possible. DIAGNOSIS AND STAGING
The following tests may be used for staging:
The extent of cancer (clinical stage) is linked to treatment decision making and post-treatment patient outcome. Staging is based on whether the tumor has invaded nearby tissues or lymph nodes, or has spread to other parts of the body. The exact stage is often not determined until after surgery. SURGICAL TREATMENTSurgery to remove the colorectal cancer is almost always required for a complete cure. The tumor and lymph nodes are removed, along with a small portion of normal colon on either side of the tumor. An ostomy is a surgically created opening that connects a part of the colon or small intestine to the skin of the abdominal wall. This procedure is typically only done in a very small number of colorectal cancer patients. Minimally invasive surgical techniques such as laparoscopy or robotics may be used by trained surgeons based on the individual case. Your surgeon will discuss this with you prior to surgery and decide on the most optimal approach. MEDICAL TREATMENTChemotherapy may be offered either before or after surgery, depending on the stage of the cancer. Unlike rectal cancer, radiation therapy is rarely used for colon cancer. POST-TREATMENT PROGNOSISPatient outcome is strongly associated with colorectal cancer stage at the time of diagnosis. Cancer confined to the lining of the colon is associated with the highest likelihood of success. This is one reason why early detection through screening methods like colonoscopy is crucial. Follow-up care after treatment for colorectal cancer is important. Even when the cancer appears to have been completely removed or destroyed, the disease may recur. Undetected cancer cells can remain in the body after treatment. Your colon and rectal surgeon will monitor your recovery and check for cancer recurrence at specific intervals. Most patients will have a repeat colonoscopy one year after completion of treatment. Blood tests, clinical examinations and imaging tests may be performed based on the stage of the cancer. WHAT IS A COLON AND RECTAL SURGEON?Colon and rectal surgeons are experts in the surgical and non-surgical treatment of diseases of the colon, rectum and anus. They have completed advanced surgical training in the treatment of these diseases as well as full general surgical training. Board certified colon and rectal surgeons complete residencies in general surgery and colon and rectal surgery, and pass intensive examinations conducted by the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery. They are well-versed in the treatment of both benign and malignant diseases of the colon, rectum and anus and are able to perform routine screening examinations and surgically treat conditions if indicated to do so. DISCLAIMERThe American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons is dedicated to ensuring high-quality patient care by advancing the science, prevention and management of disorders and diseases of the colon, rectum and anus. These brochures are inclusive but not prescriptive. Their purpose is to provide information on diseases and processes, rather than dictate a specific form of treatment. They are intended for the use of all practitioners, health care workers and patients who desire information about the management of the conditions addressed. It should be recognized that these brochures should not be deemed inclusive of all proper methods of care or exclusive of methods of care reasonably directed to obtain the same results. The ultimate judgment regarding the propriety of any specific procedure must be made by the physician in light of all the circumstances presented by the individual patient. Which client is at highest risk for colorectal cancer?People with a history of colorectal cancer in a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) are at increased risk. The risk is even higher if that relative was diagnosed with cancer when they were younger than 50 , or if more than one first-degree relative is affected.
How does colorectal cancer develop?Colorectal cancer begins when healthy cells in the lining of the colon or rectum change and grow out of control, forming a mass called a tumor. A tumor can be cancerous or benign. A cancerous tumor is malignant, meaning it can grow and spread to other parts of the body.
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