Many people are asking what bowel cancer is—what are its signs and how can they avoid getting this disease. If you are concerned that this condition might affect you or a loved one, then it’s important to understand the basics about it.
Bowel cancer is also called colorectal cancer, and it starts from the large bowel (colon) or back passage (rectum). This is why when people ask doctors what bowel cancer is, doctors typically use the terms ‘colon’ cancer and ‘rectal’ cancer, depending on which part is affected.
What causes bowel cancer is still unclear. Nevertheless, studies indicate that certain factors increase one’s chances of developing it.
Bowel cancer develops when there is abnormal growth and cell division, forming polyps in the lining or wall of the bowel. Most of them begin as benign and are thus harmless. However, when adenomatous polyps are left undetected, they turn into cancerous tumours. Moreover, tumours can spread uncontrollably to the tissues, organs and in different areas of the body.
Who can get bowel cancer?
Men and women, young and old, can get bowel cancer. In India, this cancer is the third most common cancer in women and fourth in men. According to research, people with a family history of bowel cancer in a first-degree relative are more likely to get colon cancer, although some studies found that a larger percentage of people with bowel cancer have no family history of the disease or hereditary contribution.
The risk increases as you get older. In the country, more than 90% of people suffering from bowel cancer are 50 years old or older. Some studies also show how smoking, eating red meat, obesity, and inactivity may contribute to the development of bowel cancer.
What are bowel cancer’s symptoms?
The good news is that bowel cancer can be treated successfully. However, it must be detected early. Here are some symptoms to watch out for.
- Rectal bleeding
- Abdominal or rectal pain
- Severe and sudden changes in bowel habit where you experience diarrhoea and constipation
- Pain or lumps in the anus
- Low appetite which may lead to significant weight loss
How is bowel cancer treated?
Since some patients don’t show any symptoms of bowel cancer, screening is recommended. If diagnosed positive for cancer, the patient can undergo surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or all these approaches. The type of treatment will depend on the stage of the disease.
About the Author:
Coloncancer.co.in is created with the aim to disseminate information about colon cancer. We offer free, credible, and comprehensive information about cancer prevention and treatment. This website is designed to effectively deliver information about cancers, diagnostic tests & treatment available for a particular cancer.
Contact Information:
Contact Person: Samuel Leslie
Designation: Head, Operations
Website: https://www.coloncancer.co.in
