How Does Colon Cancer Affect the Body?

Colon Cancer Overview

While the cause of colon cancer is still unknown, so is the cure. Colon cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer, second in rank to lung cancer, which has claimed the most victims in recent years. Doctors are continually working to learn more about colon cancer, treatment options and risk factors, as nearly 50,000 people are said to die from colon cancer each year and another 149,000 diagnosed, The effects of colon cancer on the body are barely detectable in the beginning stages, but routine rectal exams can help with early detection and improve a person's chances of recovery. If detected early enough, colon cancer has a cure rate of approximately 90 percent. But if colon cancer goes untreated, the effect on the body can be devastating.

Detection

A human's colon makes up most of the large intestine, which is typically about 5 feet long. The colon is between the small intestine on top of it and the rectum beneath it. The colon's job is to collect minerals from undigested food sources, followed by a transformation process in which undigested food is turned into excretions that are eliminated from the body through the rectum. For a healthy person, this process will remain consistent and without interruption. But with the presence of a malignant tumor, or polyp, the role of the colon can become compromised. For this reason, rectal exams, otherwise known as colonoscopies, are the first line of defense against fighting colon cancer. The presence of polyps is visible in the rectal exam, during which they can be removed and sent for biopsy to determine whether they are cancerous. Yearly followup exams after the appearance of polyps are a must.

Early Stage Symptoms

In the beginning stages of colon cancer, mild symptoms may occur, such as unexplained weight loss, extreme fatigue, bowel changes and anemia. While constipation is another common early symptom loose stool can be as well. Colon polyps can obstruct the passage of stool causing constipation, but squeezing of the stool by a polyp can cause it to break up and appear thin. This situation can also lead to uncomfortable stomach cramps. Blood discharged in the stool can also be indicative of colon cancer. Polyps may bleed, causing a bloody stool that can range in hues of bright to dark red. The brighter the blood, the closer the polyp is to the rectum.

Late Stage Symptoms

Colon cancer that has progressed to the latter stages of the disease can affect other parts of the body. Cancerous cells can begin to penetrate nearby tissue and spread to other organs, the bloodstream and the lymphatic system. Once this occurs, the cells can begin to produce polyps or tumors in other parts of the body. Treatment is possible, but the results are less effective than earlier stage intervention.

Treatments and Prevention

Treatments that will effectively battle lcolon cancer in its later stages are vigorously being researched. The removal of polyps through surgery is a treatment that is commonly performed, along with chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Changes in lifestyle are also being explored to examine their preventative possibilities. A diet high in fruits and vegetables, along with daily exercise and increased vitamin and mineral consumption, are believed to offer the possibility of lessening your chances of acquiring colon cancer.

Resources

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