Colorectal cancer: Causes & Treatment

Colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer, rectal cancer, or bowel cancer is the development of cancer from the colon or rectum. It is due to the abnormal growth of cells that have the ability to invade or spread to other parts of the body.

Colorectal cancer is one of the common cancers that may occur due to many causes.

COLORECTAL CANCER: CAUSES

Dietary

Environmental factors

Hereditary

Diseases like Ulcerative Colitis

COLORECTAL CANCER: RISK FACTORS

Eating Red or processed meat in large quantity

Taking low fibre diet

Consumption of alcohol

Lack of physical activity

Obesity

In case of – change in bowel habits, diarrhea or constipation that lasts longer than four weeks, blood in stool, Persistent abdominal discomfort, cramps or pain, Weakness, fatigue or Unexplained weight loss One must consult a specialist.

COLORECTAL CANCER: DIAGNOSIS

Diagnosis is made by Colonoscopy

Tissue sample is take with the help of a colonoscope

Biopsy is done for the confirmation of cancer

CT Scan helps in staging the disease

MRI Scan may be done in case of rectal cancer

TREATMENT

Open surgery or Laparoscopic surgery may be done

Chemotherapy is required in advanced stage

Taking precautions may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer

PREVENTION

Dietary regulation

Avoid eating fatty food

Eat Red or processed meat in low quantity

Include plenty of vegetable and fruits in diet

Eat more of high fibre diet

Avoid alcohol

Maintain adequate Hydration

Regular Exercise and physical activity is must

Treating colon cancer at its early stage provides the great chance for cure.