Colorectal cancer is the cancer of colon and rectum. Colorectal cancer is related to large intestine. Colon forms the major part of large intestine. Rectum is lower part of large intestine which joins colon with anus. Cancer may begin as small polyp.Colorectal cancer is more common in western countries.
Symptoms
The symptoms of colorectal cancer include
- Diarrhoea or constipation
- Blood in your stool
- Abdominal Pain, cramps or gas
- Weakness , tiredness
- Weight loss
Many a times, people don’t experience any symptoms in early stages of the disease. Symptoms may vary according to the size and location of the cancer in large intestine.
Causes
Though the exact cause of colorectal cancer is unknown, risk factors which may contribute to the disease are:
- Inherited syndromes
- Lack of physical activity
- Obesity
- Low fibre diet
- Overweight
- Consumption of alcohol and tobacco
Diagnosis
Colorectal cancer may be diagnosed by:
- Physical examination
- Blood tests
- Colonoscopy
- Histopathology
- Radiology
Prevention
Follow healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer such as:
- Avoid the consumption of alcohol and tobacco
- Add fibre in your diet
- Limit the consumption of high protein diet and red meat
- Add physical activity in your regular routine
- Control your weight
Treatment
The treatment of colorectal cancer depends on the stage of disease. The main treatment alternatives are as follows:
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation
References:
https://coloncancerfoundation.org/about_colon_cancer/index.html
http://www.webmd.com/colorectal-cancer/guide/understanding-colorectal-cancer-basics?page=2