Colon Cancer
Conditions
Colorectal cancer (CRC) originates in the colon and rectum, both parts of the large intestine. It is a common and potentially deadly cancer. About 4 percent of men and women will get colon cancer in their lifetime. What makes it challenging is that it can grow without showing any symptoms for a long time. By the time symptoms appear, it may be very advanced and have spread to other body parts.
- Abdominal discomfort, pain, cramping, or gas
- Blood in stool or abnormal bleeding from the rectum
- Persistent changes in bowel movements lasting more than a week or two
- Weakness/fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
Remember, these symptoms could also relate to other health issues. Even the slightest sign should prompt a doctor's visit.
- Colonoscopy: A tube with a camera examines the colon, samples suspicious lesions, and removes pre-cancerous polyps for analysis.
- Stool tests: Check for hidden blood or genetic material from polyps/cancer.
- Imaging: Scans like CT can also spot potential issues.
The American Cancer Society suggests colonoscopies every 10 years from age 45, with variations based on risk factors. Your NYGA doctor will guide you on the best screening choice.
The good news is that CRC can often be prevented or detected early. Most CRC starts as polyps, which doctors can remove before they turn into cancer. Treatment options include:
- Surgery
- "Biological" therapy: Smart molecules targeting cancer cells
- Chemotherapy
Although colon cancer is being diagnosed in younger adults, recent advances are improving survival rates. Personalized therapies, combined with surgery and chemotherapy, are making a difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a procedure that allows a gastroenterologist to examine the inside of the colon (large intestine) using a thin, flexible tube and a camera. It is primarily used to screen for colon cancer, detect polyps, and diagnose conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or unexplained digestive symptoms.
How long does a colonoscopy take?
A colonoscopy typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes. However, you should plan to be at the facility for at least two to three hours to allow time for check-in, preparation, and recovery from sedation.
How to prepare for a colonoscopy?
Proper preparation is key to a successful colonoscopy. This includes adjusting your diet a few days before and taking a prescribed bowel preparation (laxative) to cleanse your colon thoroughly. Your doctor will provide additional instructions based on your medical history and needs.
What can you not eat five days before a colonoscopy?
Five days before your colonoscopy, you should avoid high-fiber foods such as raw vegetables, seeds, nuts, whole grains, and tough meats. These can be harder to fully clear from the colon. Your doctor may provide a detailed diet plan, typically switching to low-fiber foods and a clear liquid diet before the procedure.
Does a colonoscopy hurt?
A colonoscopy is not painful; most patients receive sedation to ensure comfort. Some may experience mild bloating or cramping afterward due to the air used to inflate the colon during the procedure, but this typically resolves quickly.
What happens during a colonoscopy?
During a colonoscopy, a sedated patient lies on their side while a gastroenterologist inserts a thin, flexible tube (colonoscope) into the rectum. The colonoscope has a small camera that transmits images to a monitor, allowing the doctor to examine the colon for abnormalities. If polyps or suspicious tissue are found, they can be removed or biopsied. The process generally takes less than an hour, and patients recover briefly before going home.