Colon Cancer - Colon Cancer Symptom, Sign, Picture, Causes, Treatment

Colon cancer is the term most commonly used to refer to this type of cancer. The large bowel (colon and rectum) is the second most common site of cancer (after the breast in women and the lung in men). This cancer is uncommon in young adults, but after the age of 40 the incidence begins to rise, reaching a peak between 60 and 75.

Almost all colon cancers develop in the colon's, glandular lining membrane, and the majority occur in the lower third of the colon or the rectum.

Symptom of Colon Cancer

Sometimes there may be few or none unti lthe cancer is well advanced. However, in most cases early symptom of Colon Cancer include a change in bowel habit: blood in the faeces, often with increased mucus; and vague abdominal discomfort or pain, often on the left side. Sometimes the first signs are tiredness, paleness and shortness of breath resultingfrom anaemia due to bleeding from the cancer, or unexplained weight loss.

Cause of Colon Cancer

The cause of Colon Cancer is generally unknown. Some bowel conditions, especially multiple polyps in the colon and chronic inflammation and ulceration of the colon, increase the risk. Because colon cancer is more common in countries where diets tend toe low in fibre and high in fat, animal protein and refined carbohydrate, it is suspected (but not roven) that this type of diet could be a contributingfactor.

Diagnosis of Colon Cancer

If colon cancer is suspected, your doctor will suggest tests to confirm or exclude the Diagnosis, which may include testing for blood in the faeces, a barium enema, proctoscopy !internal examination of the rectum via a viewing instrument! or colonoscopy (a similar examination of the colon). The last two procedures may include biopsy in Colon Cancer. These include bowel obstruction: perforation and PERITONIS; and spread of the cancer to nearby organs, tissues and lymph glands, or via the blood to distant organs.

Treatment of Colon Cancer

Two out of three cases of colon cancer can be cured if detected early and treated promptly. Surgery is generally the first line of treatment of Colon Cancer. A temporary or pennanent COLOSTOMY may be necessary after surgery. Depending on the site and stage of the cancer and the patient's age and condition, radiotherapy and/or anti-cancer drugs may be advisedin addition to, or instead of, surgery.

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