Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer or CRC, is the third most common type of cancer in the United States. It is a disease that starts in the Colon or Rectum. Colorectal Cancer is more common in men than women. The cause of CRC is not known, but it may be related to genetics and lifestyle choices.
Symptoms of Colon Cancer
- Blood in the stool
- Cramps or pain in the abdomen
- Changes in bowel habits (such as diarrhea or constipation)
- Rectal bleeding
- Weight loss
- Weakness or fatigue
- Nausea or vomiting
- Swelling of the abdomen
Is Colorectal Cancer Genetic?
There is evidence that CRC may be genetic. Studies have shown that Colon Cancer can run in families. You are at higher risk if you have a parent, sibling, or child with Colorectal Cancer. It also be related to genetics and lifestyle choices.
What Causes Colon Cancer?
The cause of CRC is not known, but it may be related to genetics and lifestyle choices. Some factors that may increase your risk of Colon Cancer include:
- Age: Colorectal Cancer is most common in people over the age of 50.
- Ethnicity: Colon Cancer is more common in African Americans and Hispanics than Caucasians.
- Genetics: CRC can run in families. You are at higher risk if you have a parent, sibling, or child with Colon Cancer.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease: People with Ulcerative Colitis or Crohn's Disease are at increased risk for Colorectal Cancer.
Treatment for Colorectal Cancer
There are many different treatments for Colorectal cancer. Treatment options depend on the stage of cancer, how healthy the person is, and other factors. Treatment may include:
- Surgery: The type of surgery depends on the tumor's location, the person's health, and other factors.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is a treatment for cancer that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy is often used to treat colorectal cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.
- Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy is a treatment for cancer that uses energy from radiation to kill cancer cells.
- Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to attack cancer cells. These drugs are called targeted therapies because they attack only the cancer cells, not the normal cells.
- Hormone Therapy: Hormone therapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses hormones to kill cancer cells.
Colonoscopies
A Colonoscopy is a test that allows your doctor to look at the inside of your Colon and Rectum. Colonoscopies are used to screen for Colon Cancer, Diagnose Colon Cancer, and treat Colon Cancer. During a Colonoscopy, your doctor will put a Colonoscope into your Colon.
A Colonoscope is a long, thin tube with a camera on end. Your doctor will use the Colonoscope to look at the inside of your Colon and Rectum.
When Should You Talk to Your Doctor about Colon Cancer?
Symptoms of Colon Cancer can vary from person to person. If you have any of the symptoms of Colon Cancer listed above, it is essential to see your doctor. If you have a family history of Colon Cancer, you are at increased risk for Colon Cancer and should talk to your doctor about screening. Colorectal cancer is often treatable if it is caught early.