Journal of Medical Oncology and Therapeutics

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Short Communication - Journal of Medical Oncology and Therapeutics (2023) Volume 8, Issue 2

Colorectal cancer: The importance of awareness and early detection

Alex Roland*

Department of Oncology, University Hospital of Bern, Bern, Switzerland

*Corresponding Author:
Alex Roland
Department of Oncology
University Hospital of Bern
Bern, Switzerland
E-mail: alex.roland@swisstph.ch

Received: 28-Feb-2023, Manuscript No. JMOT-23-91116; Editor assigned: 02-Mar-2023, PreQC No. JMOT-23-91116(PQ); Reviewed: 16-Mar-2023, QC No. JMOT-23-91116; Revised: 20-Mar-2023, Manuscript No. JMOT-23-91116(R); Published: 25-Mar-2023, DOI: 10.35841/jmot-8.2.137

Citation: Roland A. Colorectal cancer: The importance of awareness and early detection. J Med Oncl Ther. 2023;8(2):137

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Colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer or rectal cancer is a type of cancer that affects the colon and rectum. It is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide, and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Colorectal cancer develops when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the colon or rectum. These cells can form a growth called a polyp, which can eventually become cancerous if not detected and removed. The risk of developing colorectal cancer increases with age, with most cases occurring in people over the age of 50. However, younger people can also develop this type of cancer. Other risk factors for colorectal cancer include a family history of the disease, a history of inflammatory bowel disease, and a diet high in red meat and low in fibre [1].

Symptoms of colorectal cancer can include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss. However, many people with colorectal cancer do not experience any symptoms until the disease has progressed. Screening for colorectal cancer is important for early detection and treatment. The American Cancer Society recommends that people at average risk of developing colorectal cancer begin regular screening at age 45. People at higher risk may need to start screening earlier or have more frequent screening.

Common screening tests for colorectal cancer include colonoscopies, which allow doctors to examine the entire colon and rectum for polyps or cancerous growths, and stool tests, which can detect blood in the stool. If a suspicious growth is found, a biopsy may be performed to determine if it is cancerous. Treatment for colorectal cancer depends on the stage of the disease and the individual's overall health. Surgery is often the first-line treatment for early-stage colorectal cancer, with the goal of removing the cancerous growth and any surrounding tissue that may be affected. In some cases, chemotherapy or radiation therapy may also be recommended. For advanced colorectal cancer that has spread to other parts of the body, targeted therapy or immunotherapy may be used. These treatments work by targeting specific proteins or markers on cancer cells, or by boosting the body's immune system to fight cancer cells [2].

There are several steps that people can take to reduce their risk of developing colorectal cancer. These include

Regular screening: Regular screening can help detect precancerous polyps and early-stage colorectal cancer, when it is most treatable.

Healthy diet: A diet that is high in fiber and low in red and processed meat has been shown to lower the risk of colorectal cancer.

Regular exercise: Exercise has been shown to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, as well as improve overall health.

Avoidance of tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption: Tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption have both been linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer.

Family history evaluation: People with a family history of colorectal cancer may need to begin screening earlier or have more frequent screening [3].

Colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer or rectal cancer is a type of cancer that affects the colon and rectum. It is the third most common cancer in the world and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and risk factors of colorectal cancer is important for early detection and effective treatment.

Colorectal cancer develops when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the colon or rectum. These cells can form a growth called a polyp, which can eventually become cancerous if not detected and removed. The exact cause of colorectal cancer is not known, but several risk factors have been identified. Age is one of the most significant risk factors for colorectal cancer, with most cases occurring in people over the age of 50. Other risk factors include a family history of the disease, a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, and a diet high in red meat and low in fiber. Lifestyle factors such as physical inactivity, tobacco use, and excessive alcohol consumption may also increase the risk of colorectal cancer [4].

Symptoms of colorectal cancer can vary depending on the location and stage of the disease. In many cases, there may be no symptoms at all until the disease has progressed. Some common symptoms of colorectal cancer include:

• Changes in bowel habits, including diarrhoea, constipation, or a change in stool consistency • Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding • Abdominal pain or discomfort • Unexplained weight loss • Fatigue or weakness

It is important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it is important to talk to your healthcare provider if you experience any of these symptoms. Screening for colorectal cancer is important for early detection and treatment. The American Cancer Society recommends that people at average risk of developing colorectal cancer begin regular screening at age 45. People at higher risk may need to start screening earlier or have more frequent screening.

Colorectal cancer is a significant health concern, but with early detection and appropriate treatment, many people with this disease can survive and live healthy lives. Regular screening and a healthy lifestyle are important steps in reducing the risk of colorectal cancer, as well as improving overall health and well-being. If you have concerns about colorectal cancer, talk to your healthcare provider about your risk factors and screening options. With the right care and support, we can continue to make progress in the fight against colorectal cancer and improve outcomes for patients and families affected by this disease [5].

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  5. Taylor S, Cairns A, Glass B, et al. Consumer perspectives of expanded practice in rural community pharmacy. Res Social Adm Pharm. 2021;17(2):362-7.

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