Most colon cancers are adenocarcinomas (cancers that begin in cells that
make and release mucus and other fluids) and form in the tissues of the
colon. The rectum is the last several inches of the largest intestine
closest to the anus, and it is in these tissues that rectal cancer may
form. Cancers that affect either of these organs may also be called colorectal cancer.
Causes and Risk Factors for Colorectal Cancer
The exact causes of colorectal cancer are not known, however, there are
several risk factors that increase a persons chance of developing colorectal
cancer. These are:
Age
Diet
Polyps
Personal medical history
Family medical history
Ulcerative colitis
Research shows that colorectal cancer develops gradually from benign polyps.
Early detection and removal of polyps may help to prevent colorectal cancer.
Research has also shown that changes in certain genes raise the risk of
colorectal cancer. People who have increased risk factors should ask their
doctors when to begin checking for colorectal cancer through testing.
Some of these tests are a fecal occult blood test, sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy,
double contrast barium enema, and digital rectal exam.
Signs and Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer
Signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer include:
Changes in bowel habits
Diarrhea
Constipation
Feeling that the bowel does not empty completely
Blood in the stool
Narrower-than-usual stools
Abdominal discomfort
Weight loss
Constant tiredness
Vomiting
To find the cause of the symptoms the physician will evaluate your medical
history, perform a physical exam, and order diagnostic tests.
Colon Cancer Tests
Some of the tests include: x-rays, sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, polypectomy,
and biopsy. A biopsy is removing a sample of tissue to be sent to lab
for a pathologist to look at under a microscope to be used to determine
diagnosis. Once diagnosis is determined the doctor will want to know the
stage or extent of the disease. Additional tests may be ordered to determine this.
Treatment Options for Colorectal Cancer
Treatment of colorectal cancer depends on the size, location, and extent
of the tumor, as well as patient’s general health. Patients are
often treated by a team of specialists, including a gastroenterologist,
surgeon, medical oncologist, and radiation oncologist. Several different
types of treatment options can be used and are sometimes combined. These include:
Surgery
Chemotherapy
Radiation therapy
Biological therapy
Clinical trials
After diagnosis, a treatment plan that is best for you will then be decided
upon by you and your healthcare team.
Restoring Health Through Early Detection and Expert Care
At Big Horn Basin Regional Cancer Center, our goal is to help patients
detect, treat, and overcome colorectal cancer with confidence and compassion.
Because early detection is key to successful outcomes, our team emphasizes
education, prevention, and timely screenings alongside advanced treatment options.
Contact us today to learn more about colorectal cancer treatment in Cody, WY
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