Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. It is the third most common type of cancer worldwide, and it typically develops slowly over several years.
COLON CANCER CAUSES-
The exact cause of colon cancer is not known, but several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing the disease, including:
- Age: The risk of colon cancer increases with age, with most cases occurring in people over the age of 50.
- Family history: People with a family history of colon cancer or polyps have a higher risk of developing the disease.
- Personal history of colon polyps or cancer: People who have had colon polyps or cancer in the past are more likely to develop colon cancer again.
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): People with IBD, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, have a higher risk of developing colon cancer.
- Lifestyle factors: Factors such as a high-fat diet, lack of physical activity, obesity, smoking, and heavy alcohol consumption can increase the risk of colon cancer.
COLON CANCER SYMPTOMS-
The symptoms of colon cancer can vary, but some common ones include:
- Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation that lasts for several weeks.
- Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding.
- Abdominal pain or cramping.
- Weakness or fatigue.
- Unexplained weight loss.
COLON CANCER AGE-
Colon cancer can occur at any age, but it is more common in older adults. According to the American Cancer Society, more than 90% of cases occur in people over the age of 50, and the average age of diagnosis is 68 years. However, it’s important to note that the incidence of colon cancer in younger adults has been increasing in recent years.
The reasons for the increase in colon cancer cases in younger adults are not entirely clear, but it may be related to changes in lifestyle factors, such as a diet high in processed foods and low in fiber, sedentary behavior, and obesity. Additionally, genetic factors and underlying medical conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease, may also increase the risk of colon cancer in younger adults.
STAGE OF COLON CANCER
- Stage I: The cancer has grown through the innermost layer of the colon or rectum and has invaded the middle layers. It has not spread to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body.
- Stage II: The cancer has grown through the middle layers of the colon or rectum and may have invaded nearby tissues, but it has not spread to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body.
- Stage III: The cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes, but it has not spread to other parts of the body.
- Stage IV: The cancer has spread to other parts of the body, such as the liver, lungs, or other organs.
COLON CANCER TREATMENT-
The treatment for colon cancer depends on several factors, including the stage and location of the cancer, the person’s overall health, and their preferences. The treatment options for colon cancer typically include:
- Surgery: Surgery is the most common treatment for colon cancer. It involves removing the tumor and a section of the colon or rectum, along with nearby lymph nodes.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is a type of medication that is used to kill cancer cells. It can be given before or after surgery to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.
- Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It may be used in combination with chemotherapy or surgery to treat colon cancer.
- Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy is a type of medication that targets specific proteins or genes in cancer cells to slow their growth or kill them.
The choice of treatment depends on the stage of the cancer and the person’s overall health. For early-stage colon cancer, surgery alone may be enough to remove the cancer. For more advanced stages, a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation therapy may be necessary.
COLON CANCER SURVIVAL RATE-
The survival rate for colon cancer varies depending on several factors, such as the stage of the cancer, the person’s age and overall health, and the treatment received. According to the American Cancer Society, the 5-year relative survival rate for people with colon cancer is as follows:
- Stage I: About 90% of people survive for at least 5 years after diagnosis.
- Stage II: About 80% of people survive for at least 5 years after diagnosis.
- Stage III: About 70% of people survive for at least 5 years after diagnosis.
- Stage IV: The 5-year relative survival rate for people with stage IV colon cancer is about 14%.
It’s important to note that these survival rates are general estimates and may not apply to everyone. The survival rate for an individual with colon cancer may depend on several factors, including their overall health, the stage of the cancer, the specific treatment received, and other individual factors.
Regular screening for colon cancer is important for early detection and treatment, which can improve the chances of survival. It’s also important for individuals to maintain a healthy lifestyle, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, which can reduce the risk of developing colon cancer.