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Colon and rectal cancer

Description

Colorectal cancer is cancer that occurs in the colon or rectum. The colon and rectum are part of the large intestine, which is a long, hollow tube that is part of the digestive system. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in men and women in the United States. It is also one of the most preventable types of cancer.

Symptoms of colorectal cancer may include:

  • Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or a change in the consistency of your stool
  • Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool
  • Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas, or pain
  • A feeling that your bowel doesn't empty completely
  • Weakness or fatigue
  • Unexplained weight loss 

If you have any of these symptoms, it's important to see a doctor. These symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, but the only way to know for sure is to see a doctor for a diagnosis.

Causes

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

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?

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

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

Colorectal cancer is cancer that occurs in the colon or rectum. The colon and rectum are part of the large intestine, which is a long, hollow tube that is part of the digestive system.

Symptoms of colorectal cancer may include changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding or blood in the stool, persistent abdominal discomfort, a feeling that the bowel doesn't empty completely, weakness or fatigue, and unexplained weight loss.

The exact cause of colorectal cancer is not known, but there are several factors that can increase the risk of developing the disease. These include age, family history, personal history, diet, physical inactivity, smoking, and inflammatory bowel disease.

There are several tests that can be used to diagnose colorectal cancer, including colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy, CT colonography, and barium enema. If colorectal cancer is suspected, the doctor may also order blood tests.

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.

There are several things you can do to reduce your risk of colorectal cancer, including getting screened, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and maintaining a healthy weight.

Visit a doctor if you are suffering from Colon & rectal cancer!