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Learn about Colorectal Cancer (Colon), its definition, causes, and the main types of cancer that affect the colon and rectum, guiding treatment planning.
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Colorectal cancer is a serious disease that begins in the large intestine (colon or rectum), often developing from small growths called polyps. It is one of the most common cancers affecting both men and women.
Over time, some polyps can become malignant, forming a tumor that invades the intestinal wall. Early detection through routine screening is crucial, as removing polyps before they turn cancerous can prevent the disease entirely.
The unified term “colorectal” is used because cancers of the colon and rectum share similar causes and treatment approaches.
The Colorectal Cancer (Colon) definition is the malignant growth of cells originating in the inner lining of the colon or the rectum. Almost all colorectal cancers are adenocarcinomas, which means they start in the glandular cells that produce mucus.
The term “colon” comes from the Greek word kolon, referring to the large intestine. Once the cancer is established, it can spread (metastasize) to nearby lymph nodes or distant organs, such as the liver or lungs, through the bloodstream.
It is essential to understand the difference between cancer and polyps. Polyps are growths on the lining of the colon that are typically non-cancerous when first found. Most polyps are adenomas, which means they have the potential to become cancerous.
A colonoscopy allows a doctor to view the entire colon. This is the most effective way to distinguish between a harmless polyp and an established, invasive cancer.
Colorectal cancer is mainly categorized by where it starts and how far it has spread. Understanding the location and stage is crucial for planning surgery and medical therapy.
Cancer that starts in the long, upper section of the large intestine. Colon cancer typically involves surgery to remove the affected part of the bowel.
Cancer that starts in the rectum, the last section of the large intestine, just before the anus.
Treatment: Rectal cancer often requires a combination approach, frequently starting with radiation and chemotherapy before surgery is performed. This is done to shrink the tumor.
The vast majority (over 95%) of types of Colorectal Cancer (Colon) are adenocarcinomas. However, these cancers are often categorized based on their underlying genetics and cell appearance, which guides treatment.
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Colorectal cancer directly affects the digestive system but often involves other critical organ systems due to its pattern of spread.
The treatment and prevention of Colorectal Cancer (Colon) are of critical importance. It is one of the few cancers that can be reliably prevented through screening. Removing polyps is a form of primary cancer prevention.
Advances in surgical techniques and targeted drug therapies have dramatically improved survival rates, even for advanced disease. The emphasis on early screening and preventative care highlights the public health significance of this field.
Colorectal cancer treatment is managed by a specialized, multidisciplinary team.
What do Colorectal Cancer (Colon) surgeons do? These surgeons specialize in complex operations on the colon and rectum. They remove the cancerous section of the bowel and reconnect the remaining healthy ends.
When should I see a Colorectal Cancer (Colon) surgeon? You should see a surgeon immediately after diagnosis, as surgery is the primary curative treatment for early-stage disease. They assess whether a minimally invasive approach is possible.
What is the difference between Colorectal Cancer (Colon) and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)? IBD (like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis) involves chronic inflammation. While IBD is not cancer, chronic inflammation significantly increases the risk of developing cancer over time. Treatment for IBD focuses on controlling inflammation, while cancer treatment focuses on eradication.
It is cancer that starts in the large intestine. Surgeons remove the cancerous part of the bowel and reconnect the remaining healthy tissue.
The treatments, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, target the malignant tumor in the colon or rectum to eliminate it and prevent its spread.
Over 95% are adenocarcinomas, which are categorized based on their location (colon or rectum) and specific genetic mutations.
You should see a surgeon immediately after a cancer diagnosis, as surgery is the primary curative treatment option for non-metastatic disease.
Polyps are often non-cancerous growths that can be removed preventively. Cancer is the malignant, invasive stage of the disease.
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