Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer starts in the colon or rectum, which are parts of the large intestine. It usually begins as small growths called polyps, which may turn cancerous over time. If undetected, it can spread to other organs like the liver or lungs.
Understanding the Causes & Protection
Risk Factors & Prevention
– Age over 50
– Family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
– Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis)
– Low-fiber, high-fat diet
– Obesity and sedentary lifestyle
– Smoking and alcohol
– Type 2 diabetes
How can it be prevented?
– Regular screenings (starting at age 45 or earlier with family history)
– Eat more fiber-rich fruits and vegetables
– Avoid processed meats and limit red meat
– Exercise regularly
– Maintain healthy weight
– Quit smoking and limit alcohol
Screening
– Colonoscopy (gold standard for detecting and removing polyps)
– Stool tests (FIT, gFOBT, or stool DNA)
– Flexible sigmoidoscopy
– CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy)
Symptoms
– Blood in stool or rectal bleeding
– Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of stool)
– Feeling that bowel doesn’t empty completely
– Unexplained weight loss
– Fatigue or weakness
– Abdominal discomfort, bloating, or cramping
– Iron deficiency anemia (from internal bleeding)
