Introduction:

Our bodies are intricate machines, working tirelessly to keep us functioning. The colon, often thought of as just another part of the digestive system, plays a crucial role in this complex process.
Imagine the colon as a dedicated recycling center within you. Its primary function is to absorb fluids and transform waste products from your diet into stool for elimination. Day after day, this unsung hero toils away, ensuring smooth digestion and waste removal.

Colon Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

However, due to its constant workload and exposure to various substances, the colon is susceptible to damage and disease. Among these, colon cancer stands as a significant threat. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and preventative measures, we can empower ourselves to safeguard this vital organ.

This comprehensive guide dives deep into the world of colon cancer, equipping you with the knowledge you need to protect your health and well-being. Throughout the following sections, we’ll explore:

  • The intricate workings of the colon and its role in digestion
  • The risk factors and potential causes of colon cancer
  • Recognizing the warning signs and symptoms of this disease
  • Various strategies for preventing colon cancer and promoting overall gut health

Let’s embark on this journey of understanding and take control of your health!

What is Colon Cancer?

The National Cancer Institute indicates that cancer occurs when some cells in the body begin to divide uncontrollably and spread into surrounding tissues. [1]

Colon cancer is defined as a cancer of the large intestine, the final part of a human digestive tract.
The disease usually starts with polyps in the intestinal wall.

Polyps are abnormal tissue growths that tend to look like small, flat bumps, or tiny mushroom-like stalks.
Polyps mainly develop in the colon, but they can also grow in other areas of the body.

Over time, these polyps can evolve into colon cancers.
It is important to mention that other types of cancer such as lymphoma (cancer of the lymphatic system and affects the immune system), carcinoid tumors, melanoma (the most severe form of skin cancer), and sarcomas ( a tumor that affects connective tissues) can affect colon too.

That being said, the post will focus on colon cancer itself, not other diseases that can spread to this part of your body.

Colon and Rectal (colorectal) Cancer

colorectal cancer

Colon and Rectal (Colorectal) Cancer. Shutterstock Image

Chances are high you are more likely to come across the term colorectal cancer rather than colon cancer.
Naturally, colorectal cancer refers to cancer that begins in the colon or rectum. Depending on where the cancer stars it can be called either colon or rectum cancer.

Since one name is widely used to refer to these diseases it is not uncommon for people to assume it’s the same disease.

Sure, colon and rectal cancers are similar but they do have their differences.
Before we move on to causes, symptoms, and treatment options for colon cancer, it’s essential to clarify and discuss colon vs. rectal cancer.

Both colon and rectal cancer affect the large intestine, but they start in different places within it.
In most cases, colon cancer can develop just about anywhere in the colon which is about five feet long.

On the other hand, rectal cancers start in the rectum which accounts for the last five inches (12 centimeters) of your colon.

The National Institute of Health published a study which found that short-term mortality is higher for patients with colon cancer, particularly those who experience complications, than for their counterparts with rectal cancer. [2]

Due to similarities of symptoms associated with these two types of cancer, scientists usually focus on studying them both which explains why you are more likely to come across information for colorectal cancer.

Colon Cancer: A Growing Health Concern

Colorectal cancers are more prevalent than you may realize. According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer ranks as the third most common cancer diagnosed among both men and women in the United States, following skin cancers.

Estimates from recent data indicate that by the end of 2017, there will be approximately 95,520 new cases of colon cancer and 39,910 new cases of rectal cancer reported. Alarmingly, colorectal cancer stands as the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in the U.S. and the second leading cause among men. It is anticipated that by the close of 2017, there will be a total of 50,260 deaths attributed to colon and rectal cancers.

Beyond the borders of the United States, colon cancer stands as one of the four most prevalent types of this severe disease, along with lung, breast cancer, and prostate cancer. Together, these four cancers account for four in every ten cancer diagnoses on a global scale.

The statistics paint a sobering picture of the impact of colon cancer on individuals and communities worldwide. Awareness, early detection, and proactive health measures are imperative in addressing this significant health challenge.

What are the Causes of Colon Cancer?

  • Age: Colon cancer is more common in older adults, with the majority of cases diagnosed in individuals over the age of 50. However, it can occur at any age.
  • Family History and Genetics: Individuals with a family history of colon cancer or certain genetic conditions such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or Lynch syndrome have a higher risk of developing colon cancer.
  • Polyps: Colon polyps, particularly adenomatous polyps, are considered precursors to colon cancer. If left untreated, some polyps may develop into cancer over time.
  • Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD): Chronic inflammatory conditions of the colon, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, increase the risk of colon cancer.
  • Dietary Factors: A diet high in red and processed meats, low in fiber, fruits, and vegetables, and high in saturated fats may contribute to an increased risk of colon cancer.
  • Lifestyle Factors: Lack of physical activity, obesity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption are associated with a higher risk of colon cancer.
  • Diabetes: Individuals with type 2 diabetes may have an increased risk of developing colon cancer.
  • Race and Ethnicity: Certain racial and ethnic groups, such as African Americans and Ashkenazi Jews, have a higher incidence of colon cancer.
  • Previous Cancer History: Individuals who have had colorectal cancer or other types of cancer in the past may have an increased risk of developing colon cancer.

What are the Risk Factors of Colon Cancer?

alcohol consumption and risk of colon cancer

Alcohol Consumption and Risk of Colon Cancer. Shutterstock Image

Based on a wide prevalence of the disease, it’s easy to conclude that everyone can develop colon cancer.
That being said, some people have a higher risk of developing cancer in their colon than others.
Understanding risk factors behind this health problem can help you minimize the likelihood of developing cancer and improve your overall health and wellbeing.

Below, you can see the most common risk factors that increase your odds of getting colon cancer.

Older Age

Advancing age is the number one risk factor for colon cancer. In fact, more than 90% of colon cancers are diagnosed in patients who are older than 50.

Although the American Cancer Society’s report that increasing number of younger individuals are developing colon cancer, their health problem is a result of other factors, not the age itself. [3]

Alcohol consumption

Alcohol intake is strongly linked to a number of health conditions and colon cancer is one of them. The risk of developing colon cancer due to alcohol intake is directly related to the amount of alcohol you consume.
People who drink 50 or more grams of alcohol a day (about 3.5 drinks) have 1.5 times the risk of developing colorectal cancer compared to occasional drinkers and nondrinkers.
Alcohol contributes to cancer in more ways such as:

  • Breaking down or metabolizing ethanol from your drink to acetaldehyde, a toxic chemical, and a potential human carcinogen, acetaldehyde can damage proteins and DNA in your body
  • Impairing the body’s ability to break down and absorb various nutrients such as vitamins A, C, D, E, and many others that are necessary for good health
  • Generating free radicals which can damage proteins, DNA, and lipids through a process called oxidation

Diabetes

More than 25 million people older than 20 years of age are diagnosed with diabetes, a condition which occurs when blood glucose (sugar) is too high. People with diabetes and insulin resistance are at a higher risk of developing heart disease, stroke, nerve damage, eye problems, and colon cancer.
Scientists theorize that abnormally high levels of insulin and blood glucose create an environment in the colon that promotes the development and growth of cancer.

Diet

Since colon is a part of the digestive system it is impossible for diet not to play any role in colon cancer. The food you eat can either decrease the risk of colon cancer or it can increase it.

A person who eats low-fiber and high-fat diet is more likely to develop colon cancer. It is also important to mention that consumption of processed meats also contributes to this disease.

Red meat is yet another risk factor for colon cancer, but moderate consumption and healthy cooking technique can help you avoid putting your colon health at risk.

Sedentary Lifestyle and Obesity

Sedentary lifestyle and overweight or obesity go hand in hand and they have a major potential to jeopardize your health. If you’re inactive and you also carry the excess weight you are more likely to develop colon cancer than a person who is active and also happens to be within a healthy weight range.

Smoking

We tend to associate smoking with lung cancer, but the effects of this unhealthy habit extend to many other health conditions. Evidence shows that smoking is the number one modifiable risk factor for most cancers. The term modifiable means it is a risk factor you can change. Smoking speeds up polyp growth and the delivery of carcinogens to the mucosal tissues of the colon.

Other risk factors

Along with the above-mentioned contributors to colon cancer, other risk factors include:

  • Family History – As seen above, some people have a genetic predisposition for colon cancer. This doesn’t mean you’ll get it for sure, just indicates there is a risk
  • Personal History of Colorectal Cancer and Polyps – You are more likely to develop this cancer if you’ve already had it before
  • Health conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, acromegaly (a growth hormone disorder)
  • Radiation treatment for other cancers

Unlike many other cancers that are linked to gender preferences, men and women are equally at risk of colon cancer.

What are the Symptoms of Colon Cancer?

symptoms of colon cancer

Discomfort in the Belly Area. Shutterstock Image

In the early stage of this disease, signs, and symptoms tend to be absent. Patients start experiencing different symptoms of colon cancer when it progresses or becomes more severe.

Due to the fact that colon cancer symptoms are nonspecific, they are easily attributed to some other health problems.

As a result, a person isn’t aware of his/her health problem because it’s so easy to mistake them for something else. That’s why cancer screening is strongly recommended for individuals who are 50 or older.

In addition, it’s always useful to consult a doctor when experiencing symptoms listed below and your healthcare provider will make an accurate diagnosis.

Let’s take a look at the most common symptoms linked with colon cancer:

  • Change in bowel habits including constipation, diarrhea, or change in the stool consistency that last four weeks or longer
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Feeling that your bowel doesn’t empty completely
  • Iron deficiency or anemia
  • Pain during bowel movements
  • Pelvic pain (in the late stages of the disease)
  • Persistent abdominal discomforts such as pain, gas or cramps
  • Persistent urge to defecate
  • Rectal bleeding/blood in your stool
  • Shortness of breath
  • Unexplained weight loss(you drop weight without even trying)

Interestingly, symptoms of colon cancer can depend on the location within the intestine where the tumor was formed.
For example, the right colon is wider, spacious, and more flexible and cancers that develop in this area get larger in sizes (due to more space) before they cause any symptom.

Cancer in the right colon causes iron-deficiency anemia because it leads to the loss of blood over a longer period of time.

Anemia is linked to fatigue, shortness of breath, and weakness.

On the other hand, the left colon is narrower and cancers in this area cause a complete or partial bowel obstruction.
Left-sided colon cancers are related to symptoms such as narrowed stool, constipation, abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloating, and cramps.

If a patient notices blood in the stool, it indicates the cancer is located near the end of the left colon.
Due to the similarity of colon cancer symptoms to other health conditions, the best way to alleviate them properly is to see your doctor.

This is particularly important if you notice blood in your stool. Nevertheless, the above symptoms can be prevented from aggravating by using a colon cleansing supplement such as Vital Reds, which could help maintain your colon health by improving digestion.

How is Colon Cancer Diagnosed?

Since colon cancer is a common health problem, doctors recommend that both healthy and high-risk individuals screen for this disease.
The need for screening is even more important for adults over the age of 50.
Early detection of the disease is vital for treatment success.
Doctors use different tests for colon cancer screening, and the most common approaches include:

  • High-Sensitivity Fecal Occult Blood Tests(FOBT) – checks for tiny amounts of blood in feces that cannot be seen with the naked eye
  • Stool DNA Test – A multi-target test that detects tiny amounts of blood in stool and nine DNA biomarkers in three genes that are associated with colorectal cancers (both colon and rectal) and precancerous advanced adenomas

In instances when a patient schedules an appointment due to symptoms he/she experiences, the doctor will start by asking you a few questions.

For example, the doctor may ask you when you started experiencing symptoms, whether you have a history of colon cancer or other cancers in your family or if you had them before, how severe are your symptoms, among other things.
Be ready to give accurate and honest answers because the doctor needs this information for the next steps.

Based on the symptoms you describe, the doctor will already suspect you have some specific health problem such as colon cancer, but to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms he/she may order different tests.

Tests that are used for colon cancer diagnosis are:

  • Barium Enema – X-ray procedure which uses a liquid called barium for clearer imaging results than standard x-rays.A liquid solution is injected through the rectum into a patient’s colon followed by a brief pumping of air to smooth over barium layer for precise results. Then, the doctor takes an x-ray of colon and rectum. If there are any tumors or polyps, they appear as dark outlines due to barium
  • Colonoscopy – The most common procedure that doctors use to confirm the colon cancer diagnosis and locate the tumor. During the procedure, a healthcare practitioner inserts a long, flexible viewing tube into a patient’s rectum to inspect the inside of the entire colon.Colonoscopy is regarded as more reliable than barium enema X-rays, particularly for detection of tiny polyps. If the doctor finds polyps during the procedure, they remove them with a colonoscope. Then, polyps are sent to a pathologist who uses a microscope to look for cancer
  • Sigmoidoscopy – A procedure where the doctor examines just the left side of the colon and a patient’s rectum using a shorter flexible scope.Unlike colonoscopy, this procedure doesn’t allow the doctor to inspect the entire colon. When polyps are detected, removal is performed with sigmoidoscope

If these tests show a patient has blood cancer, the doctor may also order a tumor marker blood test called CEA (carcinoembryonic antigen).

CEA is a substance that some colon, rectal, and some other cancers produce.

In colon cancer patients the substance is typically found in high amounts, particularly if the disease has spread.
To doctors, CEA test can be very practical as it tells them whether the presence of this substance has increased before cancer removal.

It is also important to mention that not all patients have elevated CEA.

This test also shows whether a patient’s body is responding to the treatment.

Doctors can also order a complete blood count (CBC) test to check for anemia.

In general, doctors rely on blood tests to get clues about a patient’s overall health and to test their kidney and liver functions.

These tests also indicate whether a patient is responding to the therapy and they also depict the severity of the disease.

What are the Stages of Colon Cancer?

stages of colon cancer

Stages of Colon Cancer. Shutterstock Image

When the doctor diagnoses colon cancer, he/she will obtain a few tests in order to determine the staging of this disease.
Common tests used for this purpose include pelvic, abdominal, and chest CT scans, but in some cases, the stage can only be determined during the surgery.
Colon cancer stages are:

  • Stage 0 – Cancer is in the early stage, known as carcinoma in situand it is located at the innermost layer of the intestine
  • Stage I – Cancer has grown through the mucosa (superficial lining) of the colon, but it hasn’t spread to nearby lymph nodes and distant sites
  • Stage II – Cancer has grown in the outermost layers of the colon, but it hasn’t gone through them. In this stage, cancer didn’t reach other organs, lymph nodes, or distant sites
  • Stage III – Cancer has grown through the outer layers of the colon and it reached one to three lymph nodes, but it hasn’t spread to distant sites
  • Stage IV – Cancer has spread to other tissues beyond colon wall. As this stage progresses, cancer reaches distant sites or organs like lung and liver in the body

Once the doctor determines the stage of colon cancer, he/she is ready to propose an adequate treatment.

What are the Treatment Options for Colon Cancer?

Even though colon cancer is a serious disease, different treatment options are available and their goal is to relieve symptoms and remove cancer.
When detected in the early stages and with the right therapy, it is entirely possible to beat colon cancer.
Although stage IV indicates cancer that spread to other tissues and organs, it is possible to treat it and downplay the intensity of symptoms.

Colon Treatment by Stages

Treatment for this disease depends on the stage:

  • Stage 0 – Due to the fact that cancer in this stage hasn’t grown beyond the colon’s inner lining, a patient usually needs surgery only.During the procedure, the surgeon performs polypectomy (removal of polyps) or uses a colonoscope for local excision.In cases when the tumor is too big to be removed through local excision, then partial colectomy (removal of part of the colon) is necessary
  • Stage I – This stage includes cancers that were a part of polyp which is why removal of the polyp during colonoscopy is usually the only treatment a patient needs.Of course, this is only in the case when the microscopic inspection finds no cancer cells at the margins or edges of the polyp sample.If a patient has a high-grade polyp cancer or cancer cells are found at the margins, the doctor recommends more surgery. In cases when stage I cancer isn’t in a polyp, the doctor recommends partial colectomy
  • Stage II – Partial colectomy is usually the first line of treatment for cancer that is at this stage. That being said, the doctor may also suggest adjuvant chemotherapy (chemo after surgery) if there’s a high risk of recurring (cancer coming back)
  • Stage III – Standard treatment for cancer in this stage is partial colectomy followed by adjuvant chemotherapy
  • Stage IV – Due to the fact that cancer spread to other sites and lymph nodes, surgery is unlikely to cure cancer at this stage. However, the doctor may still recommend a surgical procedure if there are only a few metastases in the liver and lungs. Surgery in advanced cancer stage is usually performed to alleviate symptoms, but it can also cure a patient.

The procedure involves removal of the section of the cancer-affected colon, nearby lymph nodes, and areas of cancer spread.

Patients with stage IV colon cancer receive chemo before and after surgery.

If cancer reached the liver, doctors may also use hepatic artery infusion, which delivers high concentrations of cytotoxic agents directly to liver metastases with minimal systemic toxicity.

To sum up the common treatment approach for colon cancer; if the colon cancer is small, the doctor recommends minimally-invasive procedures such as polyp removal during colonoscopy, endoscopic mucosal resection (to remove larger polyps), and laparoscopic surgery.

During a laparoscopic procedure, the surgeon makes several small incisions in the abdominal walls to insert instruments and monitor the inside of the colon thanks to cameras that are attached to the instruments.

For more advanced cancers, the doctor recommends partial colectomy, lymph node removal, and a procedure called ostomy to create a way for feces to leave the body. In some cases, an ostomy is only a temporary solution.

Any Other Lines of Treatment

Although surgery is the standard approach to treat colon cancer and alleviate symptoms, other treatment options are also available, such as:

  • Chemotherapy – This treatment option uses drugs to destroy cancer cells and, as mentioned above, it is usually given after the surgery in cases when the disease has reached lymph nodes.It is not uncommon for doctors to recommend chemotherapy to patients before surgery if their cancer is too big and they want it to shrink before the procedure
  • Immunotherapy – The use of antibodies such as nivolumab (Opdivo) and pembrolizumab (Keytruda), recommended to patients with advanced colon cancer
  • Palliative Care – Supportive of palliative care has the goal to help patients experience relief from colon cancer symptoms.Basically, palliative care specialists work closely with patients and their families to provide support and improve quality of life. This is a complementary treatment option i.e. an addition to other means of colon cancer treatment
  • Radiation Therapy – The use of x-rays or other powerful energy sources to destroy cancer cells or decrease the size of large tumors prior to the surgery.Radiation therapy can also be used to alleviate symptoms of colon cancer
  • Targeted Drug Therapy – The use of medications that target specific malfunctions which promote cancer growth. These drugs usually include Bevacizumab (Avastin), Cetuximab (Erbitux), Panitumumab (Vectibix), Ramucirumab (Cyramza), Regorafenib (Stivarga), and Ziv-aflibercept (Zaltrap). These drugs are given together with chemotherapy or alone and they are prescribed to patients with advanced colon cancer

Based on the cancer stage, the health status of the patient, and other factors, the doctor recommends an adequate treatment option.
This only intensifies the need for scheduling an appointment to see the doctor when symptoms occur, rather than assume they’re not a “big deal”.

What are the Prognosis of Colon Cancer?

colon cancer: prognosis and life expectancy

Colon Cancer: Prognosis and Life Expectancy. Shutterstock Image

Colon cancer belongs to the group of slow-growing cancers that take several years to form. Due to the fact it grows in stages, screening can decrease the risk of death due to this cause.

Despite the fact that cancer diagnosis can make a person feel like nothing can be done, it is entirely possible to beat colon cancer, especially when detected early.

Generally, the likelihood of surviving at least five years after colorectal cancer stage I diagnosis is 92%. On the other hand, stage IV colon cancer patients have only 11% chance of surviving at least five years after diagnosis.

That’s why annual screening is highly recommended for high-risk individuals, but doctors also suggest healthy persons should screen for colon cancer too.

If the colon cancer doesn’t recur within five years, it is considered cured.

How to Cope Up with Colon Cancer?

It is entirely normal to feel stressed and overwhelmed after receiving a colon cancer diagnosis.
The worst-case scenario runs through a patient’s mind and he/she is not sure what to do now.

The key is to consult with a doctor and ask him/her everything you want to know about the disease and treatment options as well as their risks and benefits.

Fighting cancer is not the easiest thing in the world, but it’s not impossible either.
Different coping strategies can help you alleviate stress and get more strength to find the disease.

Studies show that emotion-based and problem-focused coping strategies that target both coping and well-being in cancer patients are necessary for all patients and their families, and they show great effects.

People learn to cope with colon cancer, and any other serious disease, in their own unique ways.
Approaches you can take include:

  • Education – It can be very useful to get informed and learn about colon cancer. The more you know about the disease, the more confident in the treatment you’ll get. The word cancer evokes all the negative thoughts in your mind, but it’s possible to beat it. As you learn about cancer and its stages, including the stage in your case, you’ll start thinking positively. In turn, stress levels will decrease
  • Let Others Help You/Seek Support – Support from family members and friends are much-needed for the fight against colon cancer. However, some patients don’t want to “depress” others with their disease and they don’t want their support. There are also those who don’t like to admit they need someone’s help or support at all.This is a huge mistake; all of us need someone to lean on (in general) and colon cancer fight isn’t the exception. Let others provide their love and support to give you more strength and alleviate the stress you feel
  • Join a Support Group – Today, there’s a support group for just about anything and it’s a good thing. Support groups allow people who are in the same situation, in this case, colon cancer, to talk about their struggles, trade experiences, and help one another
  • Don’t Play the Blame Game – Such a serious diagnosis like colon cancer may make you start blaming yourself for the disease. Avoid doing that and focus on the treatment and coping techniques that will help you beat cancer
  • Exercise – Strive to be physically active or exercise (no vigorous activities) to keep your body healthy and beat stress
  • Try Therapy – Therapy sessions can be of huge help for colon cancer patients as they teach you how to cope with overwhelming situations and alleviate stress effectively
  • Financial Assistance – To many colon cancer patients financial situation is an additional stress. Treatment expenses can be massive and they’re not sure how they can afford them. Fortunately, many organizations provide help with medical billing, insurance coverage, and reimbursement issues.They also provide financial assistance to patients who can’t afford their medications. A great place to start is the Cancer Financial Assistance Coalition or Partnership for Prescription Assistance

What are the of Prevention Colon Cancer?

Bearing in mind that colon cancer is such a common disease, it is important to discuss preventive measures.
There are many things you can do to minimize the risk of colon cancer and the most important measures are discussed below.

Regular Screening

As mentioned throughout this post, annual screening is the best way to detect cancer in the early stages, but it also helps you prevent it.
Several screening options exist and it’s important to discuss them with the healthcare provider.

Maintaining Healthy Weight

Overweight and obesity are major risk factors for colon cancer. In fact, carrying excess weight raises the odds of many health problems besides this one. An important colon cancer preventive measure is a healthy weight.

If you’re already within a healthy weight range, then strive to maintain it.

On the other hand, men and women who are overweight or obese should adopt lifestyle changes to slim down.

Physical Activity

A sedentary lifestyle is a risk factor for both overweight obesity and colon cancer. Therefore, a useful way to help prevent the disease is to exercise regularly and increase activity levels.
Besides regular training, you can also try to move more such as choosing stairs instead of the elevator, going to short walks around the neighborhood every day, etc.

Don’t consider exercise as a sort of punishment, but an inseparable part of a healthy lifestyle.

Eat a Well-Balanced Diet

A diet that is low in fiber and high in fat contributes to colon cancer. To prevent this disease, you should make some diet changes by limiting (or avoiding) consumption of junk food and increasing the intake of fiber-rich foods such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

Just like exercise, a healthy diet is not a punishment but a part of your lifestyle.
Fiber is necessary because it is vital for digestion. Healthy digestion is also necessary for colon health.

Quit Smoking

Smoking increases the risk of colon cancer and puts your overall health in great danger.
Therefore, the logical thing to do is to quit smoking. To active smokers, it may seem impossible to simply ditch this habit, but with strong willpower you and support you can do it.

Other Things to do

Typically, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important for colon cancer prevention.
In addition to the above-mentioned preventive measures, you should also:

  • Consume alcohol moderately or avoid drinking alcohol beverages
  • Limit consumption of red meat and avoid consuming processed meats at all
  • Consume sufficient levels of calcium and vitamin D
  • Take an Aspirin or baby Aspirin every day
  • Get enough sleep
  • Manage stress
  • Avoid unhealthy methods of food preparation, instead of frying you can cook

Conclusion

In conclusion, colon cancer poses a significant health threat that demands awareness, early detection, and proactive measures. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment options empowers individuals to confront the disease effectively. Prevention strategies, including healthy lifestyle choices and regular screening, play a crucial role in minimizing risk.

Through resilience, support networks, and medical advancements, individuals navigate the complexities of colon cancer with hope and determination. Together, we strive towards a future where colon cancer’s impact is mitigated, and lives are safeguarded against its grasp.

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3 Sources

We review published medical research in respected scientific journals to arrive at our conclusions about a product or health topic. This ensures the highest standard of scientific accuracy.

[1] "What Is Cancer?" National Cancer Institute, 28 Feb. 2024, www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/understanding/what-is-cancer.
[2] van der Sijp MP, Bastiaannet E, Mesker WE, van der Geest LG, Breugom AJ, Steup WH, Marinelli AW, Tseng LN, Tollenaar RA, van de Velde CJ, Dekker JW. Differences between colon and rectal cancer in complications, short-term survival and recurrences. Int J Colorectal Dis. 2016 Oct;31(10):1683-91. doi: 10.1007/s00384-016-2633-3. Epub 2016 Aug 6. PMID: 27497831; PMCID: PMC5031780.
[3] Pasricha, Trisha. "Colon Cancer In Younger Adults: What to Know About Symptoms and Screening." N.Y. Times, 17 Aug. 2023, www.nytimes.com/2023/03/20/well/colon-colorectal-cancer-symptoms-screening.html.
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Dr. Dalal Akoury, MD

Dr. Akoury is the founder and Medical Director of The AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center. Dr. Dalal Akoury practices, Cellula