What is colon cancer

Colon cancer or colorectal cancer or large bowel cancer involves cancerous growths within the rectum, colon and appendix. It is the third most prevalent form of cancer and is the third leading cause of cancer associated deaths in the western region. It has been suggested that the cancer may develop because of polyps within the colon. Though these growths are benign they can develop into malignant tumours. This type of cancer is diagnosed using colonoscopy. It will be treated with surgery followed by chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy.

What causes colon cancer

There are a number of risk factors that will increase an individual’s likelihood of developing colon cancer. Some of these are mentioned below with a brief explanation for each risk factor.

• A diet that is enriched with fat is a possible precursor for developing the disease. Studies have suggested that a diet that is high in fat, low in fibre and that consists of adequate portions of red meat may induce the development of the disease. It is believed that the breakdown of fat in the intestines may produce carcinogenic material. Therefore it is advisable that an individual eats vegetables and foods that are high in fibre to help remove the carcinogenic waste products from the bowels.
• As mentioned before colon polyps appear to play a large role in the development of the disease. These polyps occur as a result of damage to the chromosomes in the cell lining of the intestines. This leads to the development of small benign masses. Though these small growths are benign they have the potential to become cancerous over time. It is therefore important to have any present polyps reviewed by a doctor to lessen the chance that they will develop into cancerous growths.
• A person may also be genetically predisposed to developing the disease. If an individual has a family history of the disease then his or her chances are greater for developing the condition. The age of onset of the disease in family members will also increase the likelihood of early onset of the disease in the individual.
• If a person has ever had another type of cancer especially reproductive cancers such as breast, ovary, and uterine cancer the probability of developing the disease will increase.
• Persons who have Chron’s Disease also have an elevated risk of developing the condition. Since the disease affects the intestines, damage overtime to this area will likely prompt cancerous growths. It is advisable for patients with the disease to have regular medical assessment to detect any early development of the disease.
• If an individual has ulcerative colitis which causes inflammation of the inner lining of the colon he or she will be more at risk for developing the condition. Usually the manifestation of colon cancer in patients with this disease typically occurs after 8-10 years of being affected by the disease.

The earlier the disease is diagnosed the better the prognosis for any patient. If it is not detected in the early stages it may spread to other organs and cause death.