The exact cause of colon cancer is not entirely understood, but several factors may increase the risk of developing the disease. These factors include:

• Age: Most people diagnosed with colon cancer are older than 50.
• Family history: Having a family history of colon cancer or polyps can increase your risk.
• Inherited syndromes: Certain genetic syndromes, such as Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), can increase the risk of colon cancer.
• Diet: A diet high in red meat and processed foods can increase the risk.
• Lifestyle factors: Lack of physical activity, obesity, smoking, and heavy alcohol use are linked to an increased risk of colon cancer.
• Inflammatory bowel disease: Chronic inflammatory diseases of the colon, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, can increase your risk.

In its early stages, colon cancer may not cause any symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, symptoms may include:

• Changes in bowel habits: Persistent diarrhea, constipation, or a change in the consistency of your stool.
• Rectal bleeding: Bright red or dark blood in your stool.
• Persistent abdominal discomfort: Cramps, gas, or pain.
• Feeling that your bowel doesn’t empty completely: A persistent feeling that you need to have a bowel movement.
• Weakness or fatigue: Feeling constantly tired or weak.
• Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight without trying.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical advice promptly. Early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes.

Several tests and procedures can diagnose colon cancer:

• Colonoscopy: A procedure where a long, flexible tube with a camera is used to view the entire colon and rectum. Polyps or tissue samples can be removed during the procedure for further analysis.
• Stool tests: Tests such as the fecal occult blood test (FOBT) or fecal immunochemical test (FIT) can detect blood in the stool.
• Imaging tests: CT scans, MRI, and other imaging techniques can help identify the location and spread of cancer.
• Blood tests: Tests for specific markers, such as carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), can help diagnose and monitor colon cancer.

The treatment plan for colon cancer depends on the stage and location of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. Common treatment options include:

• Surgery: The primary treatment for colon cancer, which involves removing the cancerous section of the colon.
• Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth. It can be used before or after surgery.
• Radiation therapy: Uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors.
• Targeted therapy: Uses drugs that target specific proteins or genes involved in cancer growth.
• Immunotherapy: Boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells.

While some risk factors like age and family history cannot be changed, lifestyle modifications can help reduce the risk of colon cancer:

• Regular screenings: Starting at age 50, or earlier if you have a family history of the disease, regular screenings can detect polyps before they become cancerous.
• Healthy diet: Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while reducing red meat and processed foods can lower the risk.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of colon cancer.
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol: Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption can decrease the risk.

Find treatment for colon cancer

If you experience symptoms or have risk factors for colon cancer, seek help from a GI specialist. The experienced providers at Digestive System Healthcare strive to inform and care for people with digestive health problems, such as colon cancer. If you believe you may need treatment for colon cancer, contact us to request a consultation.