Colorectal cancer is a malignancy in the colon. Cancer cells infect the layer that lines its inner surface. A tumor can grow in two directions: both into the passage itself and into the wall.
In recent years , colon cancer has come to the fore in cancer statistics, where oncology of the rectum accounts for almost half of all cases. It should be noted that this disease affects mostly residents of developed countries, such as America, Australia, European countries.
The causes of the disease
Scientists still have not decided on the causes of rectal cancer. But some factors still give a rather large percentage of the appearance of this disease:
- heredity (if someone in the family had or has rectal cancer, then a colonoscopy is recommended to be done once a year);
- other problems of the large intestine (polyps, etc.);
- low fiber foods;
- constipation
- work in hazardous production.
Early symptoms of colorectal cancer
At an early stage of the disease, the following symptoms may occur:
- constipation
- the discomfort;
- bowel disorders ;
- weight loss.
These manifestations do not always mean that there is colon cancer. Symptom of any of the above can mean a completely different diagnosis, but it is necessary to check. After all, cancer is an asymptomatic disease in the early stages. And when more obvious manifestations appear, it may be too late.
With a diagnosis of
colorectal cancer, there may be one or many
symptoms . Later manifestations of cancer include:
- blood stool;
- secretion of mucus from the anus;
- false urge to the toilet;
- pain during bowel movements and after.
A tumor in the large intestine grows relatively slowly, but in about two years the tumor can completely cover the intestine. Then the tumor spreads to the bones of the hip joints, nearby organs and lymph nodes. With the flow of blood, cancer cells spread throughout the body and metastases appear in the lungs, liver and other organs.
Many do not realize that they have rectal cancer. A symptom, such as constipation, few people will force to see a doctor. However, at least you need to visit a therapist.
How to treat colorectal cancer?
The traditional treatment is surgery. Depending on the condition of the patient, only a tumor can be removed, and part of the intestine can be excised. Sometimes the intestine is removed completely, along with the anus. In this case, a colostomy (artificial anus) is superimposed.
Chemotherapy and radiation can be used before and after surgery. According to what scheme will be treated, the attending physician will determine on the basis of the results of all examinations.
With a diagnosis of colorectal cancer, the symptom may be completely absent. Nevertheless, it is necessary to be examined annually by a proctologist or the therapist must send for the necessary studies. Serious examinations are unlikely to be prescribed in the absence of complaints, but it is quite possible to take a blood test for tumor markers and feces, for an admixture of blood.
To prevent colon cancer, you should eat a lot of vegetables and herbs, bran and other indigestible products. Regularly undergo examinations and lead a mobile lifestyle.