Even as we cope with friends and family enduring a battle with cancer, it is important for all of us to know our risks of the various forms of cancer, how to detect symptoms and ways to prevent the disease. Although colorectal cancer does not receive the most public attention, it is the second most deadly form of cancer. However, the positive news is that it is one of the easiest diseases to detect and, in its earliest stages, one of the most curable.
What it is
Colorectal cancer is found in the colon or rectum, which together make up the large intestine. Like all types of cancer, colorectal cancer forms when cells begin dividing uncontrollably and form tumors that can spread to other parts of the body. Colorectal cancer can originate anywhere in the large intestine.
The majority of colorectal cancers begin as polyps, which are abnormal growths inside the colon or rectum that may become cancerous over a long period of time. There are two types of polyps — hyperplastic and adenomatous. Hyperplastic polyps are tiny and generally do not turn cancerous, but adenomatous polyps can be problematic. As a rule of thumb, since it is not possible to determine the type of polyp during screening, all polyps are removed.
Colorectal cancer afflicts both men and women, and the disease is generally seen more commonly in people over 50. In fact, almost 99 percent of all new patients are over 50 years old, and 85 percent are over the age of 60. The exact cause of most colorectal cancers is not known. About 75 percent of colorectal cancers occur in people with no known risk factors.
However, some people have inherited conditions that make them vulnerable to colorectal cancer at a much younger age. For instance, people with familial adenomatous polyposis, a rare condition in which hundreds of polyps form in the colon, can develop colon cancer in their 20s. Certain factors may increase a person’s chance of developing colon cancer, such as inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease) as well as genetic syndromes such as familial adenomatous polyposis or hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer.
What it does
Even as it grows and spreads, colorectal cancer is often a silent disease. Many people never suspect a problem until they undergo a routine screening test. When colorectal cancer does cause symptoms, they are easy to overlook as they often present in the form of constipation, diarrhea or bouts of both. Other possible symptoms include bleeding from the rectum, blood in the stools, stools that are narrower than usual, stomach cramps, unexplained weight loss, chronic fatigue, a change in bowel habits, and strong urges to have bowel movements. These symptoms can also be associated with many other health conditions. If you have any of these symptoms, discuss them with your doctor.
Regular colon screening and the removal of polyps can provide powerful protection against colorectal cancer and save lives. The American Cancer Society estimates that 90 percent of all colorectal cancer cases and deaths could be prevented by regular screening tests. People age 50 and older should see their doctor for regular screening. If you’re younger than 50, but have had polyps, inflammatory bowel syndrome, or if someone in your family has had colorectal cancer, you should ask your doctor if screening is appropriate before you reach that age.
A change in lifestyle
In addition to regular screenings, changes in diet can also protect you from the threat of colorectal cancer. Studies suggest that a diet rich in fiber, calcium and vitamin D may help prevent colorectal cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, evidence suggests that taking a vitamin supplement containing folic acid or folate, may help reduce your risk.
Leading a healthy lifestyle and limiting alcohol consumption and not smoking are also good ideas for individuals at a high risk of developing colorectal cancer. The American Cancer Society estimates that smokers are one and a half times more likely to develop colon cancer. Studies have also shown that increased physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight can decrease the risk for colorectal cancer.
For more information on how to prevent colorectal cancer visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Web site at www.cdc.gov/cancer/colorectal/ or Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Web site at www.ahealthyme.com/topic/home.
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