Overview
Bowel cancer , also known as colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that begins in the colon or rectum. It often starts as small growths called polyps, which can become cancerous over time.
Causes and Risk Factors
Age over 50 Family history of colorectal cancer or polyps Inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis High-fat, low-fiber diet Smoking and heavy alcohol consumption Obesity and sedentary lifestyle
Symptoms
Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of stools) Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding Abdominal pain, cramping, or bloating Unexplained weight loss Fatigue and weakness due to anemia Feeling that bowel doesn’t empty completely
Diagnosis
Colonoscopy with biopsy CT colonography or virtual colonoscopy Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) or fecal immunochemical test (FIT) Blood tests for anemia or tumor markers
Treatment
Surgery to remove the cancerous section of the bowel Chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy depending on stage and location Targeted therapy and immunotherapy in advanced cases Regular follow-up and monitoring for recurrence
Prevention
Maintain a healthy diet rich in fiber, fruits, and vegetables Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight Limit alcohol consumption and avoid smoking Participate in regular colorectal cancer screening, especially after age 50 Monitor and manage inflammatory bowel disease if present