Understanding Colon Cancer: its Types, Symptoms, and Treatment

Colon cancer is a prevalent and potentially life-threatening disease that affects thousands of people worldwide each year. 

As the third most common cancer in both men and women, it is vital to understand its various types, signs, and symptoms, as well as the available diagnostic and treatment options.

By clarifying the distinctions between the various forms of colon cancer, we aim to raise awareness about the importance of early detection and intervention, ultimately improving outcomes for patients and their families.

Topics Covered

1. Colon Cancer
2. Type of Colon Cancer
3. Sign and Symptoms
4. Diagnosis and Treatment

Colon cancer

Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that originates in the colon or rectum, which are parts of the large intestine. It is the third most common cancer in both men and women worldwide.

Colon cancer typically develops from small, noncancerous growths called polyps that form on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. 

Over time, some of these polyps can become malignant (cancerous) and grow into tumors.

The cancer can then invade the colon wall and spread to nearby lymph nodes or distant organs, such as the liver or lungs.

The exact cause of colon cancer is not well understood, but several risk factors of colon cancer have been identified, including age, family history of colorectal cancer, inherited genetic mutations, personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis), obesity, physical inactivity, a diet high in red and processed meats, smoking, and heavy alcohol consumption.

Types of Colon Cancer

Adenocarcinoma is the most common type of colon cancer, accounting for approximately 95% of all cases.

This form of cancer originates in the glandular cells lining the inner wall of the colon, which are responsible for producing mucus to lubricate the passage of stool. 

Adenocarcinomas typically begin as small, noncancerous growths called polyps that can develop into malignant tumors over time.

Regular screening through colonoscopies can help identify and remove these polyps before they progress into cancer.

While adenocarcinomas make up the majority of colon cancer cases, there are several less common types that can also develop within the colon:

• Carcinoid Tumors
  

  These rare, slow-growing tumors originate in the hormone-producing cells of the intestinal tract. Carcinoid tumors often do not produce symptoms until they have spread to other parts of the body, making early detection challenging. Treatment options for carcinoid tumors typically include surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies.

• Lymphomas
  

  Lymphomas are cancers that arise from the immune system’s lymphatic cells. Although they primarily occur in the lymph nodes, they can also develop in the colon. The treatment for lymphomas in the colon generally involves a combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and sometimes surgery.
  

• Sarcomas

  Sarcomas are rare tumors that develop in the connective tissues, such as muscles, fat, or blood vessels. In the colon, the most common type of sarcoma is a gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST), which arises from the interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) or similar cells. Treatment for sarcomas in the colon may include surgery, targeted therapies, or chemotherapy, depending on the specific subtype and stage of the disease.

While adenocarcinoma is the most common type of colon cancer, it is essential to be aware of the less common forms, such as carcinoid tumors, lymphomas, and sarcomas.

Understanding the different types of colon cancer can help facilitate early detection and appropriate treatment, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

Read More: How to Know If You Have Colon Cancer

Signs and Symptoms of Colon Cancer

Common signs and symptoms of colon cancer include:

• Changes in bowel habits: This may involve diarrhea, constipation, or a persistent change in the consistency of your stool.

• Rectal bleeding: Blood may be visible in the stool or on toilet paper after wiping.

• Persistent abdominal discomfort: This can include cramps, gas, pain, or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen.

• A feeling that your bowel doesn’t empty completely: This sensation can persist even after having a bowel movement.

• Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight without making any intentional changes to diet or exercise habits could be a warning sign.

• Fatigue or weakness: Feeling consistently tired or weak without a clear explanation may be indicative of colon cancer.

• Iron deficiency anemia: A low red blood cell count due to iron deficiency can be a result of ongoing blood loss from the colon.

It is important to note that early-stage colon cancer often does not cause any symptoms, which is why regular screening is crucial for early detection and treatment.

Early detection of colon cancer can significantly improve outcomes for several reasons:

• Treatment is more effective: When colon cancer is detected at an early stage, it is more likely to be localized and easier to treat, leading to higher success rates.

• Less invasive treatments: Early-stage colon cancer often requires less aggressive treatments, such as removing polyps during a colonoscopy or performing minimally invasive surgery, compared to advanced stages that may require more extensive surgeries or additional therapies like chemotherapy and radiation.

• Lower risk of recurrence: Detecting and treating colon cancer early reduces the chances of the cancer returning after treatment.

• Improved survival rates: Patients diagnosed with early-stage colon cancer generally have better long-term survival rates compared to those diagnosed at later stages.

Being aware of the common signs and symptoms of colon cancer and undergoing regular screening can lead to early detection, which in turn increases the likelihood of successful treatment, reduces the need for aggressive interventions, and improves overall outcomes.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Colon Cancer

Different tests and procedures used to diagnose colon cancer include:

• Physical examination: A doctor may perform a physical examination, including a digital rectal exam, to check for any abnormalities in the rectum or lower abdomen.

• Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) or fecal immunochemical test (FIT): These tests check for hidden blood in the stool, which could indicate the presence of polyps or cancer.

• Colonoscopy: This procedure involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera on its tip into the rectum to examine the entire colon. If suspicious polyps or growths are found, they can be removed and sent for further analysis (biopsy) to determine if they are cancerous.

• Sigmoidoscopy: Similar to a colonoscopy, a sigmoidoscopy examines the lower part of the colon (sigmoid colon) using a flexible tube with a camera. However, it does not visualize the entire colon.

• Imaging studies: CT scans, MRIs, or PET scans may be used to visualize the colon and surrounding structures, helping to identify any tumors or signs of cancer spread.

• Biopsy: Tissue samples from suspicious polyps or growths are examined under a microscope to determine if they are cancerous.

• Blood tests: Certain blood tests, such as carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) test, can help monitor the progression of colon cancer or detect recurrences after treatment.

Read More: Stage 1 Colon Cancer Symptoms

Treatment Options for Colon Cancer

• Surgery
  

  The primary treatment for early-stage colon cancer is surgery to remove the tumor and affected tissue. This can involve removing polyps during a colonoscopy, minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery, or open surgery depending on the size and location of the tumor.

• Chemotherapy
  

  This treatment uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from dividing. Chemotherapy may be used before surgery to shrink tumors, after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells, or as the main treatment for advanced colon cancer.

• Radiation Therapy
  

  High-energy rays or particles are used to destroy cancer cells. Radiation therapy is often used in combination with chemotherapy to treat rectal cancer or to relieve symptoms in cases where surgery is not an option.
  

• Targeted Therapies
  

  These drugs specifically target certain characteristics of cancer cells, such as specific proteins or genetic mutations, without affecting normal cells. Some examples include anti-angiogenesis drugs (like bevacizumab) and EGFR inhibitors (like cetuximab).
  

• Immunotherapy
  The choice of treatment depends on factors such as the stage of the cancer, the patient’s overall health, and their preferences. A multidisciplinary team of cancer oncologists such as medical oncologists & cancer surgeons will work together to create a personalized treatment plan for each patient.

This treatment aims to boost the patient’s immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. Immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as pembrolizumab and nivolumab, have shown promise in treating certain types of colon cancer.

Conclusion

Facing a colon cancer diagnosis can be an incredibly challenging and emotional experience.

It is important to remember that you are not alone, and there are numerous resources and support networks available to help you navigate this journey.

With advances in medical research and technology, the options for diagnosing and treating colon cancer have significantly improved over the years.

Early detection and personalized treatment plans play a crucial role in enhancing the chances of successful outcomes and long-term survival.

By staying informed, and proactive, and working closely with your colon cancer specialist, you can face this challenge with hope and resilience.

Remember that every individual’s experience with colon cancer is unique, and countless patients have faced this diagnosis and emerged stronger on the other side.

Keep faith in your strength and the support of your loved ones, as together, you can overcome the challenges posed by colon cancer.

Related Read : Stage 4 Colon Cancer Final Symptoms