Colon and rectal cancer

Causes

• Age: The risk of colorectal cancer increases with age. Most cases occur in people over 50.
• Family history: If you have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps (abnormal growths in the colon or rectum), you may be at increased risk.
• Personal history: If you have had colorectal cancer or polyps before, you have an increased risk of the cancer returning or of developing new colorectal cancer.
• Diet: A diet that is high in red meat, processed meat, and fat may increase your risk of colorectal cancer.
• Physical inactivity: People who are physically inactive have a higher risk of colorectal cancer.
• Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of colorectal cancer.
• Inflammatory bowel disease: People with inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis have an increased risk of colorectal cancer. 

It's important to note that having one or more of these risk factors does not necessarily mean that you will develop colorectal cancer. Many people with these risk factors never develop the disease, and conversely, some people who develop colorectal cancer have none of these risk factors.

There are several screening tests that can detect colorectal cancer early, when it is most treatable. It is recommended that adults at average risk of colorectal cancer start getting screened at age 45. If you are at high risk of colorectal cancer due to a family history or other factors, you may need to start screening earlier.

Treatment for colorectal cancer may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of these. The specific treatment depends on the stage of the cancer and the patient's overall health.

Complications

• Blockages in the colon or rectum: Colorectal cancer can cause blockages in the colon or rectum, which can lead to abdominal pain, bloating, and constipation.
• Bowel incontinence: Treatment for colorectal cancer, particularly surgery, can cause bowel incontinence, which is the inability to control bowel movements. This can be a temporary or permanent complication.
• Anastomotic leakage: After colorectal surgery, the surgeon may create an anastomosis, which is a connection between two sections of the intestine. An anastomotic leakage occurs when there is a hole or tear in the anastomosis, which can cause abdominal pain, fever, and an increased risk of infection.
• Fistulas: A fistula is an abnormal connection between two organs or between an organ and the skin. Fistulas can occur after colorectal surgery, and they can cause drainage, pain, and an increased risk of infection.
• Metastasis: Colorectal cancer can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body, such as the liver, lungs, or brain. This can lead to additional cancers and can be life-threatening.

It's important to work closely with your healthcare team to understand the potential complications of colorectal cancer and its treatment, and to take steps to prevent or manage these complications.

How to Diagnose it?

• Colonoscopy: During a colonoscopy, the doctor inserts a thin, flexible tube with a camera into the rectum to examine the colon and rectum. The doctor may also remove small tissue samples (biopsy) for laboratory testing.
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy: This test is similar to a colonoscopy, but it only examines the lower part of the colon.
• CT colonography: Also known as a virtual colonoscopy, this test uses a CT scan to create detailed images of the inside of the colon and rectum.
• Barium enema: This test uses an X-ray to examine the colon and rectum. The patient is given a liquid that contains barium, which coats the inside of the colon and rectum and makes them visible on the X-ray.

If colorectal cancer is suspected, the doctor may also order blood tests to check for anemia (a low red blood cell count) or to check for certain proteins that may be produced by cancer cells.

If colorectal cancer is diagnosed, additional tests may be performed to determine the stage of the cancer. This can help the healthcare team determine the best treatment plan.

Prevention

• Get screened: It is recommended that adults at average risk of colorectal cancer start getting screened at age 45. If you are at high risk due to a family history or other factors, you may need to start screening earlier. There are several screening tests available, including colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy, CT colonography, and stool-based tests.
• Eat a healthy diet: A diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and low in red and processed meats may help reduce your risk of colorectal cancer.
• Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity may help reduce your risk of colorectal cancer. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity, such as brisk walking, on most days of the week.
• Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can increase your risk of colorectal cancer. If you smoke, quitting can help reduce your risk. It is also recommended to limit alcohol consumption to no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of colorectal cancer. Aim to maintain a healthy weight through a combination of diet and exercise.

It's important to note that these are general guidelines, and the best way to reduce your risk of colorectal cancer may vary depending on your individual circumstances. Talk to your doctor about what you can do to reduce your risk of colorectal cancer.

When to see a doctor?

If you have any symptoms that may be related to colorectal cancer, it's important to see a doctor as soon as possible.

FAQs