Colon cancer, a condition where cells in the large intestine grow uncontrollably, is the fourth most common cancer in the United States. It’s often grouped with rectal cancer under the term colorectal cancer. Together, they account for a significant portion of cancer cases, with the American Cancer Society estimating that about 1 in 23 men and 1 in 25 women will develop colorectal cancer in their lifetime.
Colon cancer comes in various forms, determined by the types of cells involved and their location in the digestive tract. The most common type arises from adenocarcinomas, which develop in the mucus-producing cells of the colon or rectum. Other, rarer types include:
- Neuroendocrine Tumors
- Lymphomas
- Carcinoids
- Sarcomas
- Gastrointestinal stromal tumors
Colon cancer staging when diagnosing helps colorectal providers tailor treatments and predict health outcomes. When caught early, colon cancer is highly treatable. Five-year survival rates vary by stage but are significantly higher with early diagnosis. While colon cancer typically progresses slowly, routine screenings and awareness of symptoms can make a life-saving difference. Here’s a breakdown of colon cancer stages:
- Stage 0: This is the earliest stage where abnormal cells are confined to the colon’s inner lining.
- Stage 1: Cancer has penetrated the colon’s mucosa and muscle layer but hasn’t reached lymph nodes or other areas.
- Stage 2: Cancer has spread to the colon walls or nearby tissues without affecting lymph nodes.
- Stage 3: Cancer has invaded lymph nodes but hasn’t reached distant organs.
- Stage 4: The most advanced stage, where cancer has spread to distant organs like the liver or lungs.
Colon cancer can be a silent disease, particularly in its early stages. When symptoms do occur, it’s essential to talk with a primary care provider about the next steps. The earlier screenings take place the better health outcomes can be. The below symptoms can overlap with many less serious conditions. Consult a doctor if they persist for more than three weeks.
- Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
- Persistent constipation or diarrhea
- Abdominal pain or bloating
- Narrowed stools
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- The sensation of incomplete bowel movements
Early detection is key to successful treatment. Routine screenings like colonoscopies, recommended starting at age 45, are vital. There are additional tests include fecal tests and sigmoidoscopies to assist a provider in diagnosing.
While the exact cause remains unclear, there are several risk factors for colon cancer. Fortunately, some risk factors are modifiable. You can lower your chances of developing colon cancer by reducing red meat and processed foods, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol and tobacco, and managing stress and pre-existing conditions.
- Genetics: Inherited conditions like Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) increase risk.
- Age and Ethnicity: Being over 50, African-American, or Ashkenazi Jewish heightens risk.
By making informed choices and prioritizing preventive care, you can reduce your risk and ensure a proactive approach to your health.
Southwest Health is proud to announce a new Colorectal Surgery service, offering advanced, comprehensive care for patients with a wide range of colorectal conditions. This new service is a significant expansion of Southwest Health’s commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered care to the community and surrounding areas.
The program is led by a highly skilled colorectal surgeon, Dr. Alberto Vitela, MD, MS, passionate about exceptional patient care. After completing his general surgery residency, Dr. Vitela advanced his expertise with a fellowship at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital, home to the country’s first robotic colorectal surgery grogram, and later completed a colon and rectal surgery fellowship at Cook County Hospitals in Chicago, Illinois, one of the best programs in the country where graduates of the program become leaders in their field. Along with treating patients, Dr. Alberto Vitela has researched with the University of Chicago in a NIH funded program in circular DNA for the detection of colon cancer.
If you have concerns about your risk for colon cancer, talk with your primary care provider. They will give you more insight or schedule a screening if they feel your risk is high.
