Everything You Need to Know About Colorectal Cancer

Colon cancer is the second deadliest form of cancer in the United States, claiming over 50,000 lives each year. It’s also the most preventable and treatable. You can reduce your risk of a late-stage diagnosis by understanding what colon cancer is, its causes, its symptoms, and how to reduce your risk factors. A colon cancer diagnosis can be very stressful on the patient and their loved ones. Understanding your options for treatment, how to find the right care team, and your support options can be a significant stress reliever in your recovery journey.  

 What is colorectal cancer? 

Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the colon or rectum. Where it begins determines whether it’s referred to as colorectal cancer or colon cancer. They are often interchangeable terms or grouped together because no matter where it starts, it usually affects both the colon and the rectum. 

 Most colorectal cancers begin as growths on the lining of the colon or rectum. These growths are known as polyps. Over time, most polyps turn into cancer. Some take months, while others take years, which is why screenings are so important. With proper screening, you can identify and treat polyps before they turn into cancer, making treatment easier. 

 What causes colon cancer? 

About 90% of colorectal cancers are caused by environmental exposures, meaning external factors in your life. Things like high-fat and low-fiber diets, overconsumption of alcohol, and tobacco use are all contributors.  

 Other factors can put you more at risk for developing colon cancer. Inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s and colitis, obesity, and a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps increase your likelihood of developing colorectal cancer.  

 What are the signs of colon cancer? 

Since colon cancer usually begins as polyps, you typically won’t experience symptoms until the polyps have turned into cancer. This is another reason why consistent colon cancer screenings are essential. Colorectal cancer symptoms depend on the cancer’s size, stage, and location but will usually include:  

• Changes in bowel habits and frequency  

• Rectal bleeding with bright red blood  

• Blood in the stool  

• Pain in the stomach, cramps, or gas 

• A feeling that the bowel isn’t empty after a bowel movement  

• Loss of weight without trying  

• Weakness and fatigue  

 What are my options for colon cancer screenings?  

A colon cancer screening is an essential step in preventing colon cancer. Since colon cancer starts with polyps that take time to turn into cancer, having frequent screenings allows you the opportunity to find and treat polyps before they turn into cancer or while they are in the earliest stages. 

There are many screening options that all have different methods, preparation steps, and recommended frequency. The best and most reliable colon cancer screening is a colonoscopy.  

What is a colonoscopy?  

A colonoscopy is a screening exam used to look for changes in the colon and rectum. It allows your doctor to identify swollen tissue or polyps that can be signs of colon cancer or other gastrointestinal issues like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.  

During a colonoscopy, your doctor will insert a long, flexible tube with a small camera on the end into the rectum. This tool, called a colonoscope, allows your doctor to view the inside of the colon and take tissue samples or biopsies if anything of concern is identified during the procedure. A colonoscopy usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour. Between check-in, prep, and recovery, you will spend two to three hours at the office.  

 Are there alternatives to a colonoscopy? 

There are alternatives to colonoscopies, whether you have a condition preventing you from getting one or want to explore other options.  

 A sigmoidoscopy is a similar procedure involving a long, flexible tube with a camera inserted into the rectum. However, it only examines the lower part of the colon, requiring it to be repeated more often and sometimes combined with other screening options. 

 A virtual colonoscopy lets your doctor view the colon and rectum through computerized tomography (CT scans) and X-rays. These combination scans take 3-D images, allowing your doctor to view the colon. This test is done while you’re awake, making it an excellent option for those who have issues with sedation.  

 With any screening method, if the results detect polyps or any other concerns, your doctor will likely require you to get a colonoscopy. 

 Can I do a colon cancer screening at home?  

There are a few options for at-home colon cancer screenings. A stool DNA test is a non-invasive screening method that tests for microscopic blood, DNA changes, and mutations in the stool that can be a sign of polyps.  

 DNA stool tests allow you to provide a sample at home and send it to a lab for testing. The FDA-approved Cologuard is the first at-home DNA stool test for colon cancer screenings. Just like other alternative methods, if your stool test comes back positive for markers of colon cancer, you’ll have to get a follow-up colonoscopy to confirm the presence of polyps or any other issues. 

 What to expect with a diagnosis  

If your colonoscopy or other screening method shows cancerous polyps or tissues, your doctor will likely order other tests to determine the stage. Identifying the stage allows your care team to develop a treatment plan. Each treatment plan differs depending on its stage, location, and aggressiveness. 

 If you are diagnosed with colon cancer, it’s a good idea to get a second opinion. Understanding your options, treatment methods, and care teams will ensure you get the best quality of care. 

 What are my options for colon cancer treatment? 

There are seven standard treatment plans for colon cancer. Some treatment options are best on their own, while others are used in combination. The most common treatment options are:  

 Surgery allows your doctor to remove polyps and cancerous tissue and, in many cases, treat the area with radiation directly. Historically, surgery is an invasive option, but new medical advancements have allowed for minimally invasive surgical procedures for colon cancer treatment.  

 Chemotherapy stops the growth of and kills cancer cells through drug treatment. Chemotherapy is usually taken by mouth or through an infusion. 

 Radiation therapy uses X-rays and other radioactive tools to kill cancer cells and stop them from growing back. Radiation can be done internally, during surgery or with a catheter, or externally, with a machine.  

 Targeted therapy attacks specific cancer cells through medications. Different medications are used to treat different types of cancers.  

 Immunotherapy fights cancerous cells through the immune system. Treatments are given to restore the body’s immune system and strengthen it to fight against cancerous cells.  

 What options do I have for support during treatment? 

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with colon cancer, you’re not alone. Support groups for patients, caregivers, and family and friends are available. Some support groups are offered online, while others are offered in person. Talk to your provider or research support groups near you. You will also find online support options if no good local options exist. 

 Colon cancer is an aggressive disease, but knowing the signs and how to reduce your risk can significantly decrease your likelihood of developing it. Make sure to get screened as your doctor recommends and take preventative measures. If you’ve been diagnosed, explore all available treatment options and discuss which is best for you with your provider. Though aggressive, colon cancer is treatable.  

 If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with colorectal cancer, you aren’t alone in this journey. Our cancer team at Capital Health offers expert care to help you through this process and provide the best outcomes. To learn more, visit our website or call 609-537-6363