Colorectal cancer (colon cancer, rectal cancer)
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer among men and the second most common cancer among women. From the age of 50, the risk of developing it increases sharply. Younger patients are usually only affected if they have a family history of the disease. Since colorectal cancer presents no symptoms for a long time, a precautionary medical check-up is important. If the cancer is already sizeable, the bowel movements change with alternating constipation and diarrhoea. Blood in your stool is another warning sign. If colorectal cancer is detected at an early stage, there is a good chance of recovery.
What are the causes of colorectal cancer?
An unhealthy diet with little fibre and a lot of fat and meat promotes the development of colorectal cancer. Smoking, high alcohol consumption and insufficient exercise are also harmful. Inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis have a negative impact on the development of cancer in the intestine. If there is history of colorectal cancer in the family and certain genetic changes are detected, the risk of the disease is also increased. The cancer cells develop from polyps in the intestinal wall. If a patient has a lot of polyps, this is particularly dangerous.
Why is screening so important for colorectal cancer?
The earlier a colorectal carcinoma is detected, the better the chances of recovery. The precursors of colorectal cancer and the cancer itself can be effectively identified through a colonoscopy. Polyps can be removed immediately. Hidden blood in the stool can also be easily detected as a sign of colorectal cancer. These two early diagnostic examinations already achieve a great deal. Screening should be carried out regularly from the age of 50 onwards.
How is colorectal cancer treated?
Treatment depends on the stage of the colorectal cancer. If the cancer is in the early stages and has not yet spread through the body, the prognosis is good. If the lymph nodes are infected or if metastases form in other organs, the chances of recovery are poorer. The colorectal cancer is removed through surgery. After this, radiation or chemotherapy is usually necessary. Depending on the site of the cancer, an artificial bowel outlet (stoma) may be required, either temporarily or permanently.