Colon cancer is a leading cause of death in the United States, but prompt diagnosis can drastically improve health outcomes. You can take control of your health. Discover advanced treatments and personalized care for colon cancer.
What is Colon Cancer?
Colon cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. Colon cancer typically begins as small, non-cancerous polyps that can develop into cancer over time. 1 These polyps can be removed during a colonoscopy, a procedure that allows a doctor to examine the colon and rectum for polyps and cancer.
Risk factors for colon cancer include age (most cases occur in people over the age of 50), a personal or family history of colon cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and a diet high in red and processed meats. Certain genetic syndromes, such as Lynch syndrome, can also increase the risk of colon cancer.
Colon cancer is often curable if it is found and treated early. Screening for colon cancer is recommended for all adults starting at age 45. Screening tests can include a colonoscopy, a sigmoidoscopy, or a stool test. These tests can help to find polyps or cancer at an early stage, when they are easier to treat.
Colon Cancer: Early Detection Saves Lives
Early detection of colon cancer is crucial for successful treatment and improved survival rates. Regular screening tests, such as colonoscopies, sigmoidoscopies, and stool tests, play a vital role in detecting colon cancer at its earliest stages, when it is most curable.
Colonoscopy is considered the gold standard for colon cancer screening. During a colonoscopy, a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end is inserted into the colon and rectum to examine the entire length of the large intestine. This procedure allows the doctor to identify and remove any polyps or suspicious areas that may indicate cancer.
Sigmoidoscopy is another screening option that involves examining the lower portion of the colon and rectum. While it is less comprehensive than a colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy can still detect polyps and cancer in the rectum and lower colon. Stool tests, such as the fecal immunochemical test (FIT) or the guaiac-based fecal occult blood test (gFOBT), are non-invasive screening methods that can detect hidden blood in the stool, which may be a sign of colon cancer or polyps.
Colon Cancer: Prevention and Treatment
Several lifestyle modifications can help reduce the risk of developing colon cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, and adopting a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are all important preventive measures. 2
Limiting the consumption of red and processed meats, as well as avoiding tobacco smoke and excessive alcohol intake, can further lower the risk of colon cancer. Additionally, individuals with a family history of colon cancer or certain genetic syndromes should consult with their healthcare provider about additional screening and preventive measures.
Treatment options for colon cancer depend on the stage of the disease and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Advances in medical research have led to the development of innovative treatment approaches, such as minimally invasive surgical techniques and personalized therapies that target specific genetic mutations.
Learn More About Colon Cancer
For more information about colon cancer, screening, prevention, and treatment options, individuals can refer to reputable sources such as the American Cancer Society, the National Cancer Institute, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These organizations provide comprehensive and up-to-date information to help individuals make informed decisions about their health.