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GI Cancer

Bowel / Colorectal Cancer

Bowel cancer or Colorectal cancer, which originates in the colon or rectum, has become a significant health concern globally. Although it primarily affects individuals over the age of 50, it can also occur in younger people due to a combination of dietary habits, lifestyle factors, and genetic predispositions. As cases rise, especially with changing food patterns and urban lifestyles, early detection and comprehensive treatment remain essential for better outcomes.

GI Cancer Visualization
Causes of Bowel cancer

Several factors can contribute to the development of Bowel cancer, with diet and lifestyle playing a significant role alongside genetic risks.

Diet

A diet high in red meat, processed foods, and low in fiber increases the risk of developing Bowel cancer.

Inflammatory Bowel Diseases

Conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can lead to chronic inflammation in the intestines, raising the risk of cancer.

Family History

A family history of Bowel cancer or polyps heightens an individual's risk due to inherited genetic factors.

Lifestyle Factors

Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a sedentary lifestyle contribute to the development of Bowel cancer.

Age

The likelihood of developing Bowel cancer rises with age, especially after 50.

Obesity

Being overweight or obese has been linked to an increased risk of Bowel cancer.

Symptoms of Bowel Cancer

Bowel cancer may not present symptoms in its early stages. However, as the cancer grows, common symptoms include:

Changes in Bowel Habits:Persistent diarrhea, constipation, or changes in stool consistency that last for more than a few days.
Blood in Stool:Rectal bleeding or dark-colored stools may indicate the presence of blood.
Abdominal PainAbdominal Pain: Ongoing discomfort, cramping, or pain in the abdomen.
Unexplained Weight Loss:Significant weight loss without any apparent reason.
Weekness or Fatigue:Feeling unusually tired or weak, often due to blood loss caused by internal bleeding.

Diagnosis of Bowel cancer

Several diagnostic methods are used to detect and confirm Bowel cancer, helping doctors determine the stage and plan the appropriate treatment.

Colonoscopy
A scope is inserted into the rectum to examine the entire colon and rectum for any abnormalities, including polyps or tumors.
Sigmoidoscopy
A procedure that focuses on examining the lower part of the colon and rectum.
Stool Test
A fecal occult blood test (FOBT) or fecal immunochemical test (FIT) checks for hidden blood in the stool.
CT Scan/MRI
Imaging tests are used to determine the cancer’s stage and to check if it has spread to nearby organs or distant parts of the body.

Treatment for Bowel cancer

Treatment for Bowel cancer depends on the stage of the cancer, its location, and the patient’s overall health. Common treatments include:

Surgery

Partial Colectomy: Removal of part of the colon or rectum that contains the cancer. This is the most common treatment for early-stage Bowel cancer.
Total Colectomy: In some cases, the entire colon may need to be removed.
Laparoscopic Surgery: A minimally invasive technique that allows for quicker recovery and fewer complications compared to traditional surgery

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth. It is often used after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells and reduce the chance of recurrence.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation Therapy: Radiation Therapy involves using high-energy rays to target and destroy cancer cells. It is particularly effective for treating rectal cancer, especially when combined with chemotherapy.
Proton Therapy: An advanced form of radiation therapy, Proton Therapy delivers precise radiation to the tumor while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. This allows for higher radiation doses to be safely used.
CyberKnife: A non-invasive robotic system, CyberKnife delivers highly focused radiation beams to the tumor with extreme precision. This is especially useful for tumors located near sensitive areas or in patients who cannot undergo traditional surgery.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy focuses on specific molecules in cancer cells, blocking their growth and spread. This therapy is particularly effective for patients whose tumors exhibit certain genetic mutations.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy uses drugs to enhance the body’s immune system to recognize and fight cancer cells. It may be an option for advanced Bowel cancer that does not respond to standard treatments.

Conclusion

Bowel cancer is becoming more prevalent due to changing dietary patterns and increasingly sedentary lifestyles. Fortunately, advancements in early detection through regular screenings like colonoscopy and innovative treatments, including Proton Therapy and CyberKnife, provide better chances for successful outcomes. Comprehensive cancer centers across the country offer multidisciplinary approaches, ensuring patients receive the best possible care from diagnosis to recovery.
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