Colon cancer

Overview

Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. It often begins as a polyp, which can develop into cancer over time if not detected and removed.

Causes

• Genetic mutations (hereditary factors)
• Age (risk increases with age)
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Lifestyle factors (diet, physical inactivity, smoking)

Symptoms

• Change in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation)
• Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
• Persistent abdominal discomfort (cramps, gas, or pain)
• Weakness or fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss

Diagnosis

• • Colonoscopy: To detect and remove polyps or biopsy suspicious areas
• • Imaging Tests: CT scan or MRI to determine the extent of cancer spread (staging)
• • Blood Tests: To assess overall health and detect tumor markers

Treatment

• • Surgery: Removal of cancerous tissue (surgical resection)
• • Chemotherapy: Medications to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors
• • Radiation Therapy: Targeted radiation to destroy cancer cells (often used in combination with surgery or chemotherapy)