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March 20, 2024

A Complete Overview of Colorectal Cancer

Our colon is the first and the longest part of our large intestine, the organ responsible for turning food waste into stool and passing it out of our body. However, the colon is susceptible to a serious disease – colon cancer or colorectal cancer. It is one of the most prevalent cancers in men and the second most prevalent cancer in women in Malaysia. It is also the third most common cancer affecting people around the world, accounting for at least 10% of all cancer cases worldwide.

What is Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer is the growth of cells that begins in the colon. It develops from small clumps of cells, known as polyps or growths in the inner lining of your colon.

Our colon is made of layers of mucous membranes, tissues and muscles. Colon cancer begins in the mucosa, a soft tissue lining the body’s digestive, respiratory and reproductive canals and organs. This lining consists of cells which release mucus and other fluids. These cells may mutate to form colon polyp. Several sophisticated tests can detect precancerous polyps before they turn cancerous. Colon cancer is sometimes referred to as colorectal cancer to combine colon cancer and rectal cancer.

Early diagnosis and sophisticated treatment have increased the chances of survival from colon cancer. However, if not detected on time, colon cancer can spread to other parts of the body. Most cases of colon cancer are diagnosed in older adults, although it can happen at any age. Men are more likely to develop colorectal cancer than women.

Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer

Symptoms of colorectal cancer may not be visible in the beginning. Since the symptoms of colon cancer are similar to other less serious conditions, an individual may not be able to understand that it’s a serious condition.

Here are some of the most common symptoms of colorectal cancer:

Blood in the stool: If you notice blood in your stool or after wiping, or the stool looks dark or bright red, contact a doctor immediately. However, it is important to remember, blood in the stools may not necessarily mean colorectal cancer. But there’s no harm in getting it checked.
Changes in your bowel habits: If you suffer from persistent constipation or diarrhoea, it is a good idea to get yourself checked.
Abdominal pain: Persistent abdominal pain without any cause can also indicate colorectal pain. However, belly pain can be caused by many other reasons too.
Bloating: If you feel bloated all the time, it can be a good idea to get a checkup. However, like abdominal pain, even bloating can be caused due to various reasons.
Vomiting: If you’ve been vomiting for more than 24 hours without any reason, then it is a good idea to talk to a doctor.
Unexplained weight loss: Dropping weight, without any reason, can be a symptom of colorectal cancer.
Fatigue: Unexplained fatigue and anaemia can also be a sign of colon cancer.

Causes of Colon Cancer

The exact causes of why people develop polyps which develop into colorectal cancer are still unknown. However, medical researchers have identified certain risk factors such as lifestyle choices and inherited conditions that can lead to this disease.

Excessive alcohol consumption can increase the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer.
Smoking and using tobacco products is another major risk of colon cancer.
Consuming a diet heavily laden with red meat and processed meat is another risk factor. Limiting the serving of red meat or processed meat to two servings a week is suggested.
Excessive weight is another risk factor.
Last, but not the least, not getting enough physical exercise increases the risk of colon cancer.

Certain genetic and medical conditions can also increase the risk of colorectal cancer such as:

Having a family history of colon cancer can increase the risk considerably. The risk increases after the age of 45.
People having bowel-related issues such as chronic ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s colitis are at a higher risk.
Certain inherent conditions such as familial adenomatous polyposis and Lynch syndrome can lead to colon cancer.

How can Colorectal Cancer Spread?

Colorectal cancer starts with a polyp in the wall of the colon or rectum over time. Once the cancer cells start to grow in the wall, they can spread to the blood vessels or lymph vessels and then slowly travel to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body.

The extent of spread depends on how deeply the polyp has grown in the wall and whether the cancer has spread outside the colon or rectum.

Types of Colorectal Cancer

The most common kind of colorectal cancer is Adenocarcinoma, which refers to the development of polyps on the inner wall of the colon and rectum. Other types of colorectal cancer include:

Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumours:

A rare type of cancer that can develop in the soft tissues of the body. While such kinds of cancer cells can be found in the gastrointestinal tract, they can be found in the colon too. The tumours can also start in the connective tissues of the colon or blood vessels.

Lymphoma:

This is a cancer of the immune system. Although usually lymphoma starts in the lymph nodes, it can also start in the colon.

Carcinoid Tumours:

These tumours start in the hormone-producing cells in the intestines.

Colorectal Cancer – A Final Word

Consulting a doctor once you face any of the symptoms is highly recommended. Colorectal cancer is usually treated through surgery. However, your medical team may also use other treatment methods such as polypectomy, partial colectomy, radiofrequency ablation, chemotherapy, targeted therapy and others.

Following the doctor’s advice is of utmost importance while getting treated for this condition. Lifestyle changes can help in coping with the side effects of treatment and remain healthy during the treatment process.

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