Bowel/Colorectal cancer and polyps
Bowel Cancer is an abnormal growth of cells lining the bowel forming a lump, called a malignant tumour. The cancer cells may spread outside the bowel from the primary cancer to lymph glands or other organs and these clusters of cells are called metastases or secondary cancer. The vast majority of bowel cancers involve the large bowel (colon and rectum); the small bowel is rarely affected.
While it’s a serious condition, early detection through screenings and awareness of risk factors can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment.
Understanding Colon and Rectal Cancer
Risk Factors: Several factors can increase your risk of colorectal cancer, including:
- Age (most cases occur in people over 50)
- Family history of colon cancer or polyps
- Personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Certain inherited conditions
- Lifestyle habits like smoking, obesity, and a diet low in fibre and high in red meat
Symptoms: Colorectal cancer often doesn’t cause any symptoms. However, as the cancer progresses, you might experience:
- Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation)
- Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
- Persistent abdominal pain or cramping
- Weakness or fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
Precancerous Polyps
Early Warning Signs: Colon polyps are abnormal growths that form on the inner lining of the colon. Most polyps are benign (not cancerous), but some can develop into cancer over time. Regular screening helps identify and remove polyps before they turn cancerous.
The Importance of Screening
Regular screening for colorectal cancer is crucial for early detection and successful treatment. Common screening options include:
- Colonoscopy: This procedure allows a doctor to examine the entire colon using a long, flexible tube with a camera. During a colonoscopy, polyps can also be removed.
- CT Colonography: This combines a traditional colonoscopy with a CT scan to create a 3D image of the colon.
- FOBT (faecal occult blood test, stool test): This test checks for hidden blood in the stool, which can be a sign of colon cancer or polyps.
Treatment Options
Treatment for colorectal cancer depends on the stage and location of the cancer. Here are some common approaches:
- Surgery: This is the most common treatment for colorectal cancer and involves removing the cancerous part of the colon and nearby lymph nodes.
- Chemotherapy: This uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It might be used before or after surgery.
- Radiation therapy: This uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It might be used in combination with surgery or chemotherapy.
What to expect after surgery
Tiredness, abdominal discomfort and bowel frequencies are common complaints. These problems may last for a few months, at times up to 6 to 12 months. However, most people would return to work or their daily activities within four weeks.
Follow up
Your surgeon will arrange for subsequent follow up which will include a combination of clinical assessment, blood test, surveillance scan and colonoscopy.
Early Detection Saves Lives
Colorectal cancer is highly treatable when detected early. Regular screening and awareness of risk factors are key elements in prevention and early detection. Early detection is the most powerful weapon in the fight against colon cancer.
