What is colon cancer

Colon cancer also known as colorectal cancer or large bowel cancer refers to a disease that is characterized by the presence of cancerous growths within the rectum, colon and appendix. It is the third most widespread form of cancer and is the third major cause of cancer related deaths in the western province. It has been said that the cancer may arise because of polyps that are within the colon. Though these growths are characteristically benign they can transform into malignant tumours. This kind of cancer is normally diagnosed using colonoscopy. It is likely to be treated with surgery followed by the use of chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy to kill any remaining cancer cells.

What causes colon cancer

There are multiple risk factors that will elevate an individuals chance of developing colon cancer. Some of these are stated below with a short description of each risk factor.

• A diet that is heavily saturated with fat is a common factor in promoting the development of the disease. Studies have found that a diet that is high in fat, low in fibre and that maintains excessive portions of red meat may trigger the development of the disease. It is speculated that the breakdown of fat in the large and small intestines may create carcinogenic chemicals. Therefore it is recommended that a person eats vegetables and foods that are high in fibre to help expel the carcinogenic waste products from the colon.
• As mentioned previously colon polyps seem to play a significantly large role in the manifestation of the disease. These polyps come about as a result of impairment to the chromosomes in the cell lining of the colon. This progresses into the development of small benign structures. Though these fairly minute growths are benign they have the potential to transform into cancerous growths over time. Consequently, it is important to have any current polyps assesed by a doctor to reduce the chance that they will become cancerous growths.
• An individual may also be genetically predisposed to acquiring the disease. If a person has a family history of the disease then his or her odds are greater for developing the inherited condition. The age the disease manifested in family members will also elevate the likelihood of early onset of the disease in the individual.
• If a person has ever had another form of cancer especially those of the reproductive system including breast, ovary, and uterine cancer the chance of developing the disease will be higher.
• People who have Chron’s Disease also have a heightened risk of developing the condition. Because Chron’s disease affects the intestines, deterioration overtime to this particular area will likely promote cancerous growths. It is recommended that patients with the disease are regularly assesed by the medical practitioner to diagnose any early development of the disease.
• If an individual has ulcerative colitis which will induce inflammation of the inner lining of the colon he or she will be at a higher risk of developing the condition. Typically the manifestation of colon cancer in patients with this disease generally occurs after 8-10 years of being afflicted with the disease.

The sooner the disease is diagnosed the better the outlook for any patient. If it is not discovered in the early stages it may migrate to other organs and cause probable death.