WHAT IS COLORECTAL CANCER?
Colorectal cancer is a term that encompasses cancerous growths in the colon, rectum, and appendix. It’s one of the most common types of cancer in the world and can affect both men and women. Colorectal cancer starts in the lining of the colon or rectum. These cancers can begin as a small polyp or growth of tissue that may, over time, turn into cancer. Not all polyps become cancerous, but certain types, like adenomatous polyps (adenomas), can be a precursor to cancer.
RISK FACTORS
Several risk factors can increase a person's likelihood of developing colorectal cancer, including age (it’s more common in people over 50), a personal or family history of colorectal polyps or cancer, inherited genetic conditions, lifestyle factors (such as diet, lack of regular physical activity, obesity, alcohol consumption, and tobacco use), and certain types of inflammatory bowel disease, like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
SYMPTOMS
The signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer may not be present in the early stages. When symptoms appear, they can vary depending on the cancer’s size and location in the large intestine. Common symptoms include changes in bowel habits (like diarrhea or constipation), a feeling that the bowel doesn’t empty completely, blood in the stool (either bright red or very dark), stools that are narrower than usual, frequently occurring gas pains or cramps, weight loss with no known reason, constant tiredness, and vomiting.
SCREENING AND DETECTION
Screening for colorectal cancer is powerful in early detection. Tests like colonoscopy allow doctors to view the entire colon and remove polyps before they turn into cancer. Other methods include fecal occult blood tests, sigmoidoscopy, and CT colonography. Regular screening is recommended starting at age 50 for most people, but those with a higher risk may need to begin earlier.
TREATMENT
Treatment depends on the stage of cancer and may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of these. Surgery is the most common treatment for colorectal cancer and may involve removing the cancerous portion of the colon.
PREVENTION
While not all colorectal cancers can be prevented, lifestyle changes can reduce the risk. These include maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, limiting red meat and processed meats, avoiding excess alcohol, and not smoking.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN COLORECTAL CANCER, COLON CANCER, AND RECTAL CANCER?
Colorectal cancer is a general term that refers to cancer that develops in the colon or the rectum. These cancers are often grouped together because they share many common features. However, there are distinctions based on their specific location:
COLON CANCER
Develops in the colon, which is the longest part of the large intestine.
It may start anywhere in the colon, which is divided into four sections: ascending colon, transverse colon, descending colon, and sigmoid colon.
The majority of colon cancers start as small, noncancerous (benign) clumps of cells called adenomatous polyps. Over time some of these polyps can become colon cancers.
RECTAL CANCER
Occurs in the rectum, which is the last several inches of the large intestine, closest to the anus.
The treatment for rectal cancer can be different from colon cancer due to the rectum's location in the body. It is in a tight space, closely associated with other organs and structures, which often necessitates a more complex treatment approach.
COLORECTAL CANCER
When discussing colorectal cancer, it encompasses both colon and rectal cancers.
It refers to any cancer that affects the colon and rectum, extending from the beginning of the colon to the rectum's end.
Treatments and prognosis may vary based on whether the cancer is in the colon or the rectum, even though they may be treated with similar strategies.
While colon and rectal cancers are similar biologically, their treatments can differ significantly, particularly when it comes to surgery and radiation therapy, due to the anatomical differences in their locations. Rectal cancer treatment must account for preserving the anal sphincter and avoiding damage to nearby organs.
WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF COLORECTAL CANCER?
These are symptoms you should not ignore because they may be signs of colon cancer:
rectal bleeding or blood in your stool
a change in your bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or narrow stool that lasts more than a few days;
unexplained abdominal pain or cramping;
a persistent urge to have a bowel movement that doesn’t go away after you have one;
unexplained weakness and fatigue;
unintended weight loss;
a diagnosis of anemia; and
women who have bloating that doesn’t go away or happens with unexplained weight loss
DOES AGE PLAY A PART IN COLORECTAL CANCER?
While age is often associated with an increased risk of colon cancer, it’s important to recognize that this disease does not exclusively affect the older population. In recent years, there has been a notable shift, with more cases being diagnosed in younger adults. This trend underscores the critical message that colon cancer can impact anyone, regardless of age. Project1223 is dedicated to dispelling the myth that youth is an invincible shield against such illnesses. We advocate for awareness and vigilance at all stages of life, encouraging individuals to pay attention to their body's signals and to seek screening when warranted. Our mission is to amplify the message that proactive health measures and early detection are vital, as colon cancer does not discriminate by the number of candles on your birthday cake.
COLORECTAL CANCER AND THE IMPORTANCE OF FAMILY HISTORY
A family history of colon cancer can significantly influence your risk profile for the disease. If you have a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) who has been diagnosed with colon cancer, your own risk of developing the condition may be higher. This risk increases further if more than one close relative is affected or if a family member was diagnosed at a young age. Project1223 emphasizes the importance of understanding your family's health history and discussing it with your healthcare provider. Early and regular screenings, such as colonoscopies, could be vital for early detection and successful treatment.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF COLORECTAL CANCER IN PEOPLE UNDER 45
If you are under 45 and have not been screened for colon cancer, it is particularly important that you do not ignore symptoms. The recommended age to begin colon cancer screening is now 45 years old. In recent years, there has been a troubling rise in colon cancer among people as young as their 20s and 30s who do not have a family history of the disease or typical risk factors. If you are under 45 and have worrying symptoms, discuss with your doctor if screening is right for you.
FAST FACTS
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and woman in the United States.
Colorectal cancer is also the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men and the fourth leading cause in women.
It’s expected to cause about 53,000 deaths during 2024.
Approximately 105,000 people are newly diagnosed with colon cancer each year.
Approximately 45,000 people are newly diagnosed with rectal cancer.
The lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer is about 1 in 23 for men and 1 in 25 for women.
