Guide to Cancer

Colon Cancer

Not surprisingly, colon cancer affects the part of the body known as the colon. The colon is a tube shaped organ, fond in the abdomen. It stretches from the anus to to end of the bowel. Running for over four feet, it does a lot of twisting and turning. The colon digests food, absorbs it's nutrient substances, namely proteins and amino acids, and creates the concentrated fecal material. This is stored in the colon and when the time is right, eliminated. The very end of the colon is what's known as the rectum. Along with the colon, this forms the large intestine.

From the occurrence of colon cancer emerges the appearance of tumors on the inner walls of the large intestine. Tumors have two categories, one being benign tumors, also known as polyps, which are not fatal, or even dangerous. Then there are malignant tumors, which are cancer. Polyps, fortunately don't spread to other cells or tissues and their removal is a mere formality. Malignant tumors however do spread and are life-threatening. What's absolutely crucial to note here is that benign polyps turn into malignant tumors if they're not found and treated in time.

From the emergence of a colon cancer, it begins to spread to other tissues and cells and given time, it can reach the liver or the lungs and from there, new tumors can form. There is no great knowledge that currently exists as to the causes of colon cancer. It is known however that some have a higher chance of getting it than others. For example, those who intake a lot of fate or those who have a family history of the disease are more susceptible. Consumption of tobacco and alcohol also play their part in increasing the risk.

In it's beginning sages, there are almost zero symptoms. What takes that complication one step further is the fact that the symptoms from person to another. They're dependent upon the cancer's size and it's precise location.

Some of the more common symptoms are:

pain and cramps in the abdominal region

loss of weight

excessive gas

a change in bowel habits

narrow stools

blood found in stools

If you notice any of these symptoms, you should consult your doctor immediately. You will undergo several tests which you may or may not find embarrassing. They include rectal exams and fecal sample tests. If colon cancer is indicated, treatment must commence immediately. Otherwise, t could spread to other areas. When we talk about treatment for colon cancer, we're talking about chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and the most common type, surgery.

The one good thing about colon cancer is that it's a type of cancer that most people survive. What's more, the survival rate is a stat that continues to rise the right direction. The survival right does depend on what stage the patient is at and obviously the chances of survival are much lower at the final stage due to the fact that it would then have spread to other distant organs of the body.

Despite this however, colon cancer remains one of the main causes of death due to people not knowing they have it until it reaches the final stages. You must note any symptoms and from time to time receive medical advice from your doctor.