March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Yes, we know what you’re thinking: Another month, another issue I have to think about. Yes, it is, and we’re hoping you pay close attention. This is all about your health.
Colon cancer is sometimes called colorectal cancer, a term that combines colon and rectal cancer, which begins in the rectum. Colon cancer starts in the large intestine, more commonly known as the colon — the final part of the digestive tract. Colorectal cancer typically affects older adults, though it can happen at any age. It usually starts as small, benign (noncancerous) clumps of cells called polyps that form on the inside of the colon. Over time, some of the polyps can mutate into cancers.
There is a subtlety to recognizing colon cancer. Polyps may be small and produce few, if any, symptoms (see list below). For this reason, doctors recommend regular screening to help prevent cancer by identifying and removing polyps before they become cancerous.
If colon cancer develops, many treatments are available to help control it, including surgery, radiation therapy and drug treatments such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy. However, unlike, say, breast cancer, with its many national and regional organizations, there are comparatively few colon and colorectal cancer groups. One exception is the National Colorectal Cancer Roundtable, which has more than 100 partner members across the nation.
During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, in October, pro athletes wear pink-accented uniforms to show their support for the battle against this insidious disease. Women are reminded that they can check for lumps, and those 40 and older are strongly encouraged to get mammograms. There are ads everywhere.
The symptoms
A person with colorectal cancer may experience no symptoms or many, including:
• Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool.
• A change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation or narrow stools lasting more than a few days.
• Unexplained abdominal pain or cramping.
• A persistent urge to have a bowel movement that does not go away after one.
• Unexplained weakness and fatigue.
• Unintended weight loss.
• A diagnosis of anemia.
• Women — bloating that does not go away or is accompanied by unexplained weight loss.
Contact your doctor if any of these problems are severe or continue longer than you think they should. With rectal bleeding or blood in the stool, tell your doctor immediately.
Source: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center