Treatments

Colon Cancer

Colon cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the part of the large intestine called the colon and is among the most common cancers worldwide. It is generally more common in individuals aged 50 and over and affects both women and men.

The large intestine is an organ approximately 1.5-2 meters long that forms the last part of the digestive system. The large intestine has two main sections: the rectum and the colon. Food waste coming from the small intestine is separated from water and minerals here, solidified, and stored in the rectum to be expelled as feces through the anus.

The rectum is the last 12-15 cm part of the large intestine closest to the anus. The colon is the part of the large intestine excluding the rectum. Cancer that develops in the colon is called “colon cancer,” while cancer that develops in the rectum is called “rectal cancer.” When these two types of cancer are evaluated together, they are referred to as colorectal cancer.

What is Colorectal Cancer?

  • Colorectal cancer is a general term covering tumors that develop in the colon and rectum.

  • It usually arises from benign formations called polyps on the inner surface of the intestines that gradually turn into cancer.

  • Early diagnosis significantly increases the chance of successful treatment.

Symptoms of Colon Cancer

  • Changes in bowel habits (constipation, diarrhea).

  • Blood in stool or black-colored stool.

  • Abdominal pain, gas cramps, bloating.

  • Weight loss and loss of appetite.

  • Persistent fatigue and weakness.

  • Iron deficiency anemia.

  • Since these symptoms can be related to other diseases, specialist evaluation is necessary.

Causes and Risk Factors of Colon Cancer

  • Age: Risk increases in individuals aged 50 and above.

  • Family history: People with colon or rectal cancer in their family have a higher risk.

  • Polyps: Benign protrusions developing on the intestinal wall may turn into cancer over time.

  • Inflammatory bowel diseases: Conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis increase risk.

  • Genetic disorders: Especially hereditary diseases such as HNPCC (Lynch syndrome).

  • Unhealthy lifestyle: Low-fiber, high-fat diet, obesity, smoking and alcohol consumption, physical inactivity.

How is Colon Cancer Diagnosed?

  • The most effective method for diagnosing colon cancer is colonoscopy.

  • This method allows detection of both tumors and polyps that have the potential to turn cancerous.

  • Polyps can be removed during the same procedure if necessary.

  • Other tests such as fecal occult blood test, CT scan, and biopsy are also used during diagnosis.

Stages of Colon Cancer

  • Stage 0: Only on the inner surface, usually symptomless.

  • Stage 1: Cancer has spread to the deeper layers of the colon wall.

  • Stage 2: Cancer has extended beyond the colon wall but has not reached lymph nodes.

  • Stage 3: Spread to nearby lymph nodes.

  • Stage 4: Metastasis to distant organs (such as liver, lungs).

Why Does Colon Cancer Develop?

  • Colon cancer develops due to a combination of genetic predisposition and lifestyle factors.

  • The transformation of polyps into cancer over time, DNA damage in cells, inflammatory bowel diseases, poor nutrition, and lack of physical activity are influential causes.

How Long Does Colon Cancer Take to Develop?

  • Colon cancer, often originating from polyps, develops slowly over years.

  • This process can typically take 10-15 years.

  • Therefore, regular screening and early diagnosis are lifesaving.

Types of Colon Cancer

  • The most common type of colon cancer is adenocarcinoma.

  • Other rarer types include:

    • Lymphoma.

    • Sarcoma.

    • Carcinoid tumors.

    • GIST (Gastrointestinal stromal tumor).

Treatment of Colon Cancer

  • The treatment plan depends on the stage of the disease:

    • Early stage: Tumor and surrounding tissues are removed surgically.

    • Advanced stage: Along with surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or targeted therapies are applied.

  • Regular follow-up after treatment is important to reduce the risk of recurrence.

Colon Cancer Surgery

  • The goal of colon cancer surgery is to remove the cancerous area along with surrounding healthy tissues.

  • Small tumors can be removed by endoscopic methods in early stages, while in advanced stages, part or all of the colon may be removed.

  • Temporary or permanent colostomy (bag) may be required if necessary.

Ways to Prevent Colon Cancer

  • Consume fiber-rich foods (vegetables, fruits, whole grains).

  • Reduce red meat and processed foods.

  • Exercise regularly.

  • Avoid smoking and alcohol.

  • Maintain a healthy weight.

  • Get regular colonoscopies starting at age 50.

  • Start screenings earlier if there is a family history of cancer.

Who is at Risk?

  • Individuals aged 50 and over.

  • Those with a family history of colon or rectal cancer.

  • People with polyps or inflammatory bowel disease.

  • Those with low-fiber, high-fat diets.

  • Diabetics.

  • People with obesity.

  • Individuals with a sedentary lifestyle.

Is Colon Cancer Genetic?

  • Yes, colon cancer can be caused by genetic predisposition in some individuals.

  • Especially those with a family history of colon cancer are at higher risk.

  • Therefore, earlier screening is recommended in cases where genetic inheritance is involved.

TREATMENTS

Professor Dr. Mustafa Ates

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