Colorectal Cancer

COLORECTAL CANCER magnified

Last Updated December 20th, 2021

Overview

Cancers can arise in practically any part of the body when cells begin to grow out of control. Cancer appearing in the terminal portions of the gastrointestinal tract is known as colorectal cancer. In other words, this is cancer of the colon or the rectum. ‘Colon’ is another name for the large intestine and its main function is to absorb water and minerals from solid wastes as they pass through it. It is a muscular tube between 5 to 6 feet long.

Anatomically it is divided into a number of sections. These sections are the caecum, ascending colon, transverse colon, descending colon and sigmoid colon. Finally, the colon is succeeded by the rectum and the anal canal. Solid waste is stored in the rectum until it can be eliminated through the anus. Colorectal cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer and it can take varied forms.

Definition

COLORECTAL CANCER locationColorectal cancer is a broad term for any cancer that originates in the large intestine or the rectum.

Depending on the specific location, the disease may be known either as colon cancer (bowel cancer) or rectal cancer.

Usually, it begins in the form of a benign growth in the inner mucosal lining of the colorectal region.

From here, it can invade the other layers and even the muscular wall of the organ.

Following this, it can extend into blood vessels or lymphatic channels. Once this takes place, it is possible for cancer to spread or metastasize to other parts of the body.

Causes

The colon and rectum are both composed of multiple layers of tissue. The innermost layer is known as the mucosa and the thin muscular component of this is known as the muscularis mucosa. Next comes a fibrous layer called the submucosa. This is surrounded by a thick layer of muscle known as the muscularis propria. Finally, the colon (but not the rectum) is sheathed by the subserosa and serosa which are composed of connective tissue.

Usually, cancer first arises in the innermost layer or the mucosa. Sometimes, pre-cancerous changes, or dysplasia, are observed in the cells of this area. This can eventually give rise to cancer. Otherwise, cancer may have its origin in a form of abnormal growth called a polyp. Polyps can be of different types and they do not all necessarily have the tendency to transform into a malignant state. Adenomatous polyps, for instance, are known to turn cancerous. However, the more common hyperplastic polyp is less likely to do so. Often, the origin of colorectal cancer can be linked to age or lifestyle factors. Genetic factors also have a role to play.

COLORECTAL CANCER magnifiedRisk factors include:

  • Being obese or overweight.
  • Being male is associated with a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer.
  • Having a family history of colorectal cancer.
  • Being older than 60 years of age is associated with a heightened risk.
  • Having had breast cancer is also linked with an increased likelihood of developing colorectal cancer.
  • Diet that is high in fat and deficient in fiber. Eating a lot of red meats or processed meats is also a risk factor.
  • Alcohol abuse.
  • Smoking.
  • Sedentary lifestyle.
  • Having inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease.
  • Having hereditary diseases such as familial adenomatous polyposis.

Symptoms 

In the initial stages of the disease, the patient may not experience noticeable symptoms. Possible signs and indications include:

  • Bleeding from the rectum.
  • Blood in the stools or darkened stools.
  • Pain in the abdominal area or the rectal area.
  • Changes in normal bowel habits. The patient may have persistent diarrhea or constipation.
  • Excessive Flatulence.
  • Weight loss.
  • Fatigue.
  • Nausea and/or vomiting.

Types of Colorectal Cancer

The following are the various recognized types of colorectal cancer:

  • Adenocarcinoma: This is by far the most common type, accounting for as much as 95% of diagnosed cases. This form originates in the cells of intestinal glands.
  • Primary colorectal lymphoma: This is a rather rare type and tends to arise in the caecum. It is a form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. In other words, it arises in the lymphatic system and affects lymphocyte cells. Men are affected twice as often as women.
  • Gastrointestinal carcinoid tumor: The neuroendocrine cells of the gastrointestinal tract regulate the secretion of digestive juices and also control the passage of food through the organs. Such cells share the features of both neurons and endocrine cells. This form of cancer affects the neuroendocrine cells of the colorectal region by causing the formation of tumors. The tumors, like the cells they have originated from, are also known to secrete hormone-like substances although this may not always be in quantities capable of causing significant symptoms. This type of cancer accounts for only about 1% of colorectal malignancies. It is a slow-growing type.
  • Gastrointestinal stromal tumor: This form of cancer originates in a certain type of cell belonging to the autonomic nervous system. These cells are responsible for providing the electrical impulses that cause the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract to contract and relax. This is a form of sarcoma or cancer that arises in the connective tissue.
  • Melanoma: This type of cancer arises in certain types of pigment-forming cells known as melanocytes. Usually, such cells are present in the skin but they are also found in other areas including the mucosal tissues of the gastrointestinal tract.
  • Leiomyosarcoma: This rare form is associated with a high likelihood of metastasis. Hence, early detection and commencement of treatment ensure a better outlook. This tends to affect the connective tissues, particularly the smooth muscles. Leiomyosarcoma only constitutes about 0.1% of colorectal cancers.
  • Squamous cell carcinoma: This form of cancer arises in the squamous cells present in the lining of the bowels. This is a highly uncommon cancer.

Cancer Grading and Stages

COLORECTAL CANCERThe severity of colorectal cancer is graded on a scale of 1 to 4 depending on the extent to which the malignant cells differ from normal tissue. G1 indicates that the cancer cells closely resemble healthy tissue. G4, at the other extreme of the scale, indicates that the cancer cells show highly abnormal features. Grades 1 and 2 are considered the lower grades while 3 and 4 are considered high grades.

Combining this information with the cancer stage helps determine treatment approaches and overall outlook. The TNM system developed by the American Joint Committee on Cancer is a scheme commonly used to determine the stage of colorectal cancer. The criteria for this include the degree of invasion of various layers of the colorectal area, whether cancer has extended locally in the area and whether it has spread to more distant parts of the body. This information is obtained by collating the results of imaging tests and biopsies as well as the findings of any surgeries that may have been conducted.

Clinical Complications

The list below outlines some complications associated with colorectal cancer:

  • The cancer can spread to distant organs and tissues within the body. This makes it especially difficult to treat and shortens life expectancy.
  • The formation of scar tissue can create obstructions in the bowels or rectum.
  • The cancer can recur even after treatment.
  • Colorectal cancer can be a terminal illness. In other words, it is capable of being fatal.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing colorectal cancer involves the following procedures:

  • Physical examination of the patient may reveal a mass in the abdominal area.
  • Complete blood count test to check for anemia.
  • Fecal occult blood test detects the presence of blood in the stools.
  • Colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy involves the insertion of a flexible tube tipped with a camera. This is an effective test for detecting cancer in the colon or rectum.
  • Diagnostic imaging helps assess the condition of the bowels or rectum and determine the extent of spread of the cancer. This can also help reveal the extent of damage to other organs. Involvement of distant organs such as the brain may be revealed by imaging methods such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computerized tomography (CT).
  • A sample of affected tissue is examined beneath a microscope in order to determine the specific type of cancer.
  • Assessing the grade and stage of the cancer.

Treatment and Prevention

Treatment of colorectal cancer:

  • Surgery: This includes removing the cancer cells and some surrounding tissues as well. Other surgical methods include laparoscopy surgery, colostomy if cancer has spread to the rectum, and radiofrequency ablation (Cryoablation).
  • Radiation Therapy: This includes the use of high energy gamma rays pinpointed at the cancer cells to destroy them.
  • Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy drugs such as Fluorouracil or Capecitabine is directly supplied into the bloodstream which travels to the site of cancer cells and destroys them.

Low FODMAP diet for colon cancer

FODMAPs are a group of fermentable carbohydrates. They are known to cause many problems such as gas, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and stomach pain. Studies show that restricted low consumption of FODMAPs drastically reduces the symptoms mentioned above.

FODMAP stands for

  • F – Fermentable.
  • O – Oligosaccharides. Dietary sources of oligosaccharide are wheat, rye, legumes, pulses, and various sources of fruits and vegetables.
  • D – Disaccharides. Dietary source of disaccharides is milk, yyogurt and soft cheese.
  • M – Monosaccharides. Dietary sources of monosaccharide are honey, agave nectar, and various sources of fruits and vegetables.
  • A – and
  • P – Polysaccharides. Dietary sources of polysaccharides are various sources of fruits and vegetables, and certain sweeteners such as sugar-free gum.

A typical Western diet is rich in red meat such as chorizo, dairy products such as buttermilk, custard, gelato, kefir etc. It also includes processed and artificially sweetened foods such as sausages, pasta, pastries, muffins, cakes etc. These foods come under the category of a high FODMAP diet and may increase the chances of developing colon cancer. A low FODMAP diet can be prescribed to reduce the symptoms of colon cancer. A low FODMAP diet consists of an increased intake of whole grains such as buckwheat, corn, millets etc. Dairy products such as butter, margarine, sorbet etc and meat such as beef, lamb, chicken etc. may increase the risk of colon cancer.

Following a low FODMAP diet consisting of whole grains and dietary fibers makes the gut healthier. Consuming dairy products up to 400g per day reduces the chances of developing colon cancer. Limiting red meat consumption to 500g per week can reduce the chances of developing colon cancer.

Prevention of colorectal cancer:

  • Consume a low-fat, high-fiber diet that includes at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables per day.
  • Avoid red meat, processed meats, and cured meats.
  • If you are above 40, it is advised to go for full body check-ups and get regularly screened for colorectal cancer (especially if you have a family history or other risk- factors).
  • Refrain from unhealthy habits such as smoking and drinking alcohol.
  • Add calcium, vitamin D, and folate supplements.
  • Exercise often and make sure that you have a healthy BMI.

TL;DR?

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Dos and Don'ts

Dos
  • If you have been diagnosed with colorectal cancer, it is advisable that you maintain a detailed record of your health. This includes medications and the onset of symptoms.
  • Choose low-fat foods and also limit your carbohydrate intake.
  • Wear adult diapers, pads, or panty liners if you are experiencing frequent diarrhea post chemo sessions.
Don'ts
  • Consume meats. Especially, one must refrain from eating cured and processed meats.
  • Lead a sedentary life. Go for walks as it will build up your immunity and prevent cancer from coming back.
  • Add stress or anxiety in your life. Practice meditation, join a support group and indulge in your favorite hobbies that will help you relax.

 

 

 

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8 hidden causes of obesity you probably didn’t know! Did you know that around 2 billion people worldwide are either overweight or obese? Are you too a…
xylitol gum
Xylitol : Is this the right sugar substitute for you? Discovered during World War 2 owing to sugar shortage, xylitol has become a common name in pharamaceutical industry.…
Juice Plus: Can you really replace actual fruits with pills?  Juice Plus supplements intend to fill nutritional gaps present in our daily diet. But how successful have they…
Did you know drinking alkaline water could be the healthier choice for you? Ever wondered how safe is your drinking water in terms of pH? Recent studies have revealed that Alkaline…
Goji berry: A traditional Chinese berry that packs the best of antioxidants Goji berry is an ancient berry that is considered to be power-packed with nutrients and antioxidants. Which means…
Ear pain model
Easy and safe tips for ear wax removal you can do at home Cerumen impaction generally occurs when an external object like cotton swabs are used to remove the ear wax.…
Bubble Tea: Bubbling with nutrition or a hidden sugar mine? The tapioca pearls present in the tea looks like bubbles and hence the name bubble tea became popular.…
Barium-enema
Barium Enema Barium enema is also known as colon x-ray. Here, the patient is asked to consume small amount of…
blood ketone test
Blood Ketone (D3HB) Test The Blood Ketone Test measures and monitors the levels of ketone in the blood which is usually performed…
rosacea-treatment--before-_-after
The best and safest ways to treat rosacea Rosacea is a skin disease that is characterized by reddish hives and rashes on the face. Read more…
oral hygiene tips
6 shocking consequences of bad oral hygiene (and how to avoid them) Did you know bad breath is not just turning off, but also harms your body in ways you…
gallbladder diet tomato
Gallbladder surgery :Tips on post-operative care and diet What to eat post a gallbladder surgery? What are the key things to avoid if you had a…
black seed oil benefits
Black Seed Oil: What secret benefits could it bestow on your health? Black seeds or nigella seeds are tiny packets of health brimming with amazing benefits. Find out why should…
Shilajit: A miracle Himalayan herb for an active and happy life The Himalayas contain more wonders than you thought. Shilajit is a miracle herb that is widely used in…
GM Diet: The fastest way to lose weight or yet another hoax diet? General Motors started this trend of extreme dieting for 7 straight days to ensure its employees were able…
CLA: A breakthrough weight loss supplement with minimal side effects Tried every weight loss supplement in the market with no substantial gain? Why not try CLA supplements, derived…
How can Kegels help you overcome weak pelvic muscles & incontinence? Kegel exercises are pelvic floor strengthening exercises that can help you overcome incontinence issues that rise out of…
What to eat, what not to eat in the South Beach Diet? The South Beach Diet is one among the most popular weight loss programs that have been the talk…
Tart Cherry: The healthiest excuse for taking that second serving of pie Tart cherry has been traditionally used in delectable desserts such as pies. Recent studies have revealed that its…
Bloodtestalbumin
Albumin Test Albumin test or blood serum test is a liver function test that measures the amount of the protein…
blood elements analysis
Blood Element Analysis Test A blood element analysis is a blood test performed to measure the level of toxic elements such as…
amylase test
Amylase Test Amylase test is done by checking the level of this protein in the blood sample and also in…
fructosamine test
Fructosamine Test A fructosamine test measures blood sugar glucose content. Fructosamine level can indicate blood sugar level in past 2-3…
Rubella IgM test
Rubella IgM Test The Rubella IgM test is a blood test that is performed to diagnose the presence of the rubella…
antiHEV IgM test
Anti hepatitis E virus (Anti HEV) IgM Test Anti HEV IgM test determines the level of the IgM antibodies in the blood, The disease is often…
sodium blood test
Blood Sodium Test A blood sodium test measures the amount of sodium (an important electrolyte) in your body. It is also…
leptospira Igm test
Leptospira-IgM Test A Leptospira-IgM test is a blood test which is carried out to detect anti-Leptospira IgM antibody. Leptospirosis is…
iron deficiency profile
Iron Deficiency Profile An iron deficiency profile is a battery of blood tests which are performed in order to determine the…
Diabetes blood test
Diabetic Profile The diabetic profile is a set of tests used for testing and monitoring the various kinds of Diabetes…
Hymenoplasty
Hymenoplasty Read on to find out all about hymenoplasty, the procedure, post-surgery care, the risks, and the benefits.
Dragon Fruit – Blessing from Nature’s Basket Dragon fruit is packed with nutrients but low on calories. It is the dream food that can help…
How can berberine supplements help you live longer and healthier? Berberine is a turmeric look-alike herbal extract that is credited with numerous health benefits ranging from diabetes cure…
Urologist: When should you visit one and why? A urologist can treat not only genitourinary problems of both men and women but also can treat various…
The Cabbage Soup Diet: The healthiest way to instant weight loss Cabbage soup diet rapid weight loss diet for those who want to shed those extra pounds in less…
Quinine: How gin and tonic came to be known as a potent health elixir The discovery of quinine-containing tree bark is sometimes considered the most serendipitous medical discovery of the 17th century.
Inhale oxygen, exhale worries: The top breathing exercises and how to perform them Performing the breathing exercise is like becoming mindful of how you breathe.  Here is a list of breathing…
GGt test
GGT – Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase Test GGT or gammaglutamyl transferase test is a liver function test that is used to detect the extent of…
anoscopy
Anoscopy Anoscopy is an invasive diagnostic procedure where a small device known as anoscope will be inserted in the…
malarial antigen test
Malaria Antigen Test A malaria antigen test is a rapid diagnostic test (RDT) that can detect malarial antigens (proteins) in your…
sugar toxic health
Sugar: 7 new shocking truths revealed about the sweet poison Can drinking soda bring you closer to death? Is sugar slowly poisoning you and your family? You would…
avocado benefits
Avocado: 15 reasons why this fruit should be a staple in your diet Did you know that the word avocado literally means "testicles". Don't get grossed out as this power-packed fruit…
Cayenne: The remarkable benefits of these red hot chili peppers These may make you rush for a glass of water, but cayenne pepper is actually a healthy additive…
Kava: Is it the healthy substitute for alcohol you have been waiting for? Native to the beautiful South Pacific islands, Kava is a famous beverage rooted in the local culture. It…
How seitan proved to be a blessing in disguise for vegans worldwide Can only meat-eaters enjoy delicious juicy steaks and burgers? With seitan, the best meat substitute available today,even vegans…
How to correctly perform nasal irrigation using a Neti Pot? Neti pot has been a part of Ayurveda since centuries. This ancient tool is extremely effective in treating…
What is the right way to take a pregnancy test? A pregnancy test is undertaken to determine if you have conceived. A home pregnancy test is the most…
Appendix pain: Recent findings on this not-so vestigial organ The exact function of the appendix is still not clear. Some consider it as an organ that once…
glucose-tolerance
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test – GTT Glucose tolerance test (or Oral GTT) is used to detect the onset of diabetes or prediabetes conditions. It…
LFT-test
Liver Function Test – LFT LFT or Liver Function Test is a blood test used to determine the levels of hepatic enzymes which…
ASTtest-liver
AST- Aspartate Aminotransferase Test AST test is a blood test that is used to measure the level of a particular liver enzyme…
ANTIPHOSPHOLIPIDANTIBODY(APL)_IgG
Antiphospholipid (APL) antibody-IgG The Antiphospholipid Antibody testing is a blood test used to determine an autoimmune disorder called Antiphospholipid syndrome linked…
Strep throat pain
Anti-Streptolysin-O Test The ASO or Anti-Streptolysin-O is a blood test designed to check for the presence of streptococcus bacterial infection…
vdrl test syphilis
VDRL Test The VDRL test is a blood test that is used to diagnose sexually transmitted or venereal diseases, primarily…
Period sanitary napkin-menstruaion-blood-colors
Period blood – what it says about your health Your period blood color and consistency indicate what is happening in your body. Is your blood bright red…
Hepatitis A virus infected liver
Hepatitis A Virus (HAV) Total Blood test to look for IgM antibodies to know if you are infected with Hepatitis A virus (HAV),…
hidden benefits walking
9 benefits of walking we bet you didn’t know! Did you know walking can be the miracle pill for eternal youth? Everyone knows walking is good for…
liver detox facts
7 liver detox facts and why ignoring these could kill you! Are you taking care of this organ that handles over 500 different vital functions in your body? Your…
L-theanine attention
L-Theanine: Better sleep, higher focus, and many other benefits Did you know that L-theanine found in green tea can make you sleep better and be focused at…
aspartame or sugar
Aspartame – Hidden truths about this storm in a teacup Aspartame, the artificial sweetener, has gone under the scanner on several occasions for allegedly doing more harm than…
High Fiber Diet – Fire up your fiber intake for these health benefits! Regular bowels, healthy detox, higher immunity, and guaranteed weight loss - a high fiber diet can bring all…
Agave nectar: The bitter truth about this sweetener revealed Agave nectar is considered to be sweeter than the normal table sugar and even contains higher amounts of…
gout diet purines
Gout Diet : Get relief from painful joints by eating these foods Are you a victim of this painful condition? Are medications providing only short relief? Find a list of…
DHEA wrinkles
DHEA: Now get unbelievable age defiance with this wonder hormone! DHEA is known popularly as the age-defying hormone. This supplement is widely used to slow down aging and…
Oil of Oregano: The one-stop essential oil you’ve been looking for Are you plagued by a weak immune system? High body inflammation accompanied by pain and infections? Why not…
Love tea, hate tannins? Rooibos tea is just what you need The market is brimming with a multitude of herbal teas. But what makes rooibos tea (or red bush)…
Pescatarian Diet 101: What are the inherent health advantages of this diet? People opt to become a pescatarian in order to enrich their bodies with the essential health benefits that…
Mood swings
The real reasons for your mood swings and how to overcome them Are you prone to heated moods frequently? Do you also feel bouts of depressive feeling creeping up on…
shakeology woman
Meal replacement or protein drink? Learn all about Shakeology and its claims Shakeology from Beachbody claims to be the most suitable shake that can aid in weight loss, regulate blood…
hemoglobin variant analysis
Hemoglobin Variant Analysis Hemoglobin variant analysis is a blood test that is used to detect the presence of hemoglobin variants which…
cystatin C
Cystatin C Test Cystatin C is a specific single-chain protein that is found in body fluids and is a biomarker for…
piles fissure fistula
Allopathy vs homeopathy vs ayurveda treatment for piles, fissures, and fistula Read to know the best form of treatment among allopathy, homeopathy,or ayurveda for piles, fissures, and fistula

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