Changing Face of Colorectal (Bowel) Cancer

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Changing Face of Colorectal (Bowel) Cancer

• Colorectal cancer is cancer affecting the large
  intestine and rectum. There has been a rapid
  increase in colorectal cancer in India, and this
  can be attributed to two factors
• Increasing life expectancy
• Following the western lifestyle
• Most cases occur above the age of 50. It is true
  that if detected early, then colorectal cancer
  can be cured.
• How does colorectal cancer develop?
• Contrary to belief, it takes years to develop
  colorectal cancer. It develops from the inner
  lining of the bowel (mucosa). Initially, it forms
  a polyp, which over time turns into cancer. The
  tumour then starts to invade through different
  layers of the bowel wall and into the lymph nodes
  near it. If undetected, it can eventually spread
  to different parts of the body.

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• Can polyp be treated?
• Yes. Most polyps do not contain cancer cells.
  Removal of polyp will be sufficient to prevent
  the cancer from developing.
• In some cases, even after removing the polyp,
  cancer cells may be found. If the cancer cells
  have spread to the colon, then further surgery is
  advised if necessary.
• What are the risk factors for colorectal cancer?
• Increases with age
• Western lifestyle
• Genetic factor (first-degree relative having
  colorectal cancer)
• Long-term inflammatory bowel disease (Crohns or
  Ulcerative colitis)

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• What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer?
• Initially, there might be no symptoms or very few
  symptoms. The symptoms would increase when the
  cancer grows in size. The symptoms include
• Change in bowel habit either to constipation or
  to passing too many times
• Sensation of incomplete emptying after passing
  motion
• Blood mixed with the stool
• Passing mucus with stool
• A sensation of fullness after eating little
• Abdominal distension
• Read Full Articel Colorectal surgeon in Bangalore

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