A few facts about colorectal cancers

Colon  and rectum are the lower most part of the digestive system, also commonly called large intestine/bowel and rectum. Tha cancers of these organs together are called colorectal cancers.

These cancers are the third most frequent cancer in the United States. Even in India, this is the third most common cancer in females and males. The symptoms, therapy, and prognosis for colon cancer are all influenced by the stage of the disease at the time of diagnosis with excellent cure rates if detected early.

Learn about the stages, causes and symptoms of colon cancer, as well as resources to help you obtain care.

Colorectal Cancer: What You Need to Know

Colorectal cancer occurs when cells in the colon or rectum grow out of control or divide uncontrollably.The rectum connects the colon to the anus, the last segment of the alimentary canal, and the colon is also known as the large intestine or large gut.

What Causes Colorectal Cancer in the First Place?

Most colorectal cancer begins in polyps, which are tiny clusters of cells. When the normal cells that line the colon and rectum alter, they begin to grow abnormally and uncontrollably, resulting in polyps. These polys can grow into the large intestine wall and develop into a malignant tumour. However, not all polyps get malignant; it all depends on the type of polyp.

Colorectal cancer risk factors

As you become older, your chances of developing colorectal cancer increase. This is a non modifiable risk factor.

Another risk factor is inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.

• You or someone in your family has had colorectal cancer or polyps.
• A hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer syndrome, such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)external icon or hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (Lynch syndrome).

The following are some of the lifestyle factors that may raise the risk of colorectal cancer. These are the modifiable risk factors.

• Insufficient physical activity regularly
• A high-fat, low-fibre diet, or a diet rich in processed meats
• Obesity and being overweight
• Use of alcohol
• Tobacco consumption

Colorectal Cancer Symptoms

The following are some of the early indications and symptoms of colon cancer:

• Blood in the stool, which may be red or black.
• Alteration in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhoea
• Consistent aches, cramps, or pain in the stomach
• Unintentional or unexplained weight loss
• Gas or bloating
• Passing narrower stools that can continue a few days
• Feeling sluggish or quickly weary
• Constant urge to urinate along with the impression that the bowels are not emptied
• Vomiting or nausea
• Pale complexion/symptoms of anaemia

There are no apparent symptoms in the early stages of colorectal symptoms, although they may become evident with time.

Hence the way to prevent colorectal cancer is to lead a healthy life with regular exercise, high fibre, low saturated fats, no processed foods, no alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight.

In case of any family history of such cancers or polyps in family or personal history of Crohns or Ulcerative colitis, consult an expert for regular tests like colonoscopy  to detect any earliest abnormalities in your digestive system. In case of any change in your bowel habits or symptoms mentioned above, get yourself tested to prevent unwanted problems.

Stay aware stay empowered!!!!!!