Colon Cancer
August 21st, 2009
Cancer of the rectum and colon is the fourth leading type of cancer in females and the third leading type of cancer in males. The incidence of colorectal cancer (as it is known) is notably higher (and still increasing) in the Western world as opposed to Asia and Africa.
Cancer is not one disease it is a group on at least one hundred different diseases. It affects the cells of our body by causing them to become abnormal and they start to divide with no order or control. The cells keep on dividing forming a mass of extra tissue known as a tumour. The tumour can be malignant or benign.
A benign tumour can be removed, does not spread around the body and does not return. Generally speaking a benign tumour is not considered a threat to life. Cancer is known as a malignant tumour. The cancer cells invade organs and damage tissues, they can enter the blood stream and travel around the body invading other organs. When the cancer spreads, the site of the original disease is called the primary and where ever else it starts in the body is known as the secondary locations. The spread around the body of cancer cells is known as metastasis.
The colon and the rectum make up the large intestine or large bowel. Polyps can develop in the colon and rectum – these polyps are benign groups of cells and if discovered during a colonoscopy they can be easily removed. If they are not removed it is believed that colorectal cancer develops from these polyps.
If the tumour develops nearer the anus the symptoms may show as a change in bowel habits. Constipation or diarrhoea, the feeling of being unable to complete defecation satisfactorily, the reduction in the diameter of the stool or the change in shape of the stool may all be signs of a tumour. There may be bleeding from the anus or blood in the stools or an increase in mucus.
If the tumour goes unnoticed for a longer period of time the bowel can become blocked, this will lead to constipation, abdominal pain or distension and sometimes vomiting.
The most common place that colorectal cancer spreads to is the liver. This will eventually lead to jaundice and pain in the abdomen, and if the bile duct is obstructed pale stools.
Treatment of colorectal cancer depends on how long the disease has been present. If caught in the early stages it can be curable, if it has metastasized it is less likely to be cured.
The primary treatment is surgery where the tumour and as much surrounding tissue as necessary will be removed. Surgery is usually followed by chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy.
COLON CANCER NEWS…
Aspirin May Help Treat Colon Cancer
Certain patients with colon cancer who begin regular aspirin use after the disease develops may greatly improve their odds of survival, a study shows.
Colon Cancer Symptoms – What are Colon Cancer Symptoms
Colon cancer symptoms can run the gamut from local, such as blood in the stool and constipation, to systemic, such as weight loss and fatigue. Learn about the many different colon cancer symptoms and what you can do to take control.
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I’ve tried countless colon cleansers and some work better than others. My only problem being cramps. I guess my digestive system is a bit sensative so i’ve had to cut back on the recommended dosages. Before using any cleanser be sure to start slow and drink plenty of water.
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