Colon Cancer

Causes

• Age: Risk increases with age, with most cases diagnosed after the age of 50.
• Family History: Having a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) with colon
  cancer increases the risk.
• Personal History: Previous history of colorectal cancer or polyps increases the risk.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative
  colitis increase the risk.
• Dietary Factors: Consuming a diet high in red or processed meats, and low in fiber.
• Obesity: Being overweight or obese increases the risk.
• Smoking: Smoking cigarettes increases the risk of colon cancer.

Symptoms

• Change in Bowel Habits: Persistent diarrhea or constipation, or a change in stool
  consistency.
• Blood in the Stool: Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool (bright red or dark).
• Abdominal Discomfort: Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas, or pain.
• Unintended Weight Loss: Significant weight loss without trying.
• Weakness and Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak.
• Incomplete Emptying: Feeling like the bowel does not empty completely.
• Iron Deficiency Anemia: Low red blood cell count due to chronic blood loss.

Diagnosis

• Colonoscopy: Using a flexible tube with a camera to examine the colon and rectum.
• Biopsy: Removing a sample of tissue for examination under a microscope to confirm
  cancer.
• Imaging Tests: CT scan, MRI, ultrasound, and PET scan to visualize the colon and
  detect tumors.
• Blood Tests: Testing for tumor markers such as carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA).

Treatment

• Surgery:
  • Colectomy: Removal of part or all of the colon.
  • Lymph Node Dissection: Removal of nearby lymph nodes.
• Chemotherapy: Drugs to kill cancer cells, used before or after surgery.
• Radiation Therapy: High-energy beams to kill cancer cells, sometimes used in
  combination with chemotherapy.
• Targeted Therapy: Drugs that target specific abnormalities in cancer cells.
• Immunotherapy: Boosting the immune system to fight cancer, used in certain cases.

Prevention

• Screening: Regular screenings for individuals at average risk starting at age 45-50.
• Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Regular Exercise: Staying physically active can reduce the risk of colon cancer.
• Limit Alcohol: Moderate or avoid alcohol consumption.
• Quit Smoking: If you smoke, quit smoking to reduce the risk of colon cancer.