Colon Carcinoma

The term 'colon' refers to that portion of the intestine, which begins at the cecum and ends at the rectum. It is more commonly known as the large intestine. Carcinoma of Colon and Rectum is, therefore, a cancer of the large intestine.

The rectum is the last portion of the large intestine, which ends in the anus. The colon cancer and the rectal cancer are together known as colorectal cancer.

In the United States, the colorectal cancer is the fourth largest death-causing disease preceded only by the skin, prostrate and the lung cancer, in men. In women, it is preceded by the skin, lung and the breast cancer.

All cancers begin in the cell. When a cell, instead of dying out, remains as such, and new cells start accumulating in the same region, they form an unwanted lump of flesh called a tumor.

The tumors that are malignant form into the life-threatening, colorectal cancer. The cancer, if not removed completely, grows back. Sometimes, it also spreads to the other parts of the body through the bloodstream.

The colorectal cancer usually spreads to the liver. The new cancer, in such cases, is called a metastatic colorectal cancer, and not liver cancer.

Colorectal cancer is not a contagious disease. Scientists, so far, have been able to shortlist certain personal and genetic factors as the main causes of the disease. More than 90 percent of the people, who get diagnosed of colorectal cancer, are above the age of 50.

Age is the most predominant factor because people, by the time they reach 50, become more prone to developing colorectal polyps. These polyps are either benign or malignant growths in the inner walls of the intestine. Malignant polyps must be removed as soon as possible in order to avoid a cancer risk.

Scientists also believe that a cancer runs in the family. In other words, it is inherited from the parents. If any close relative, such as a brother, sister, father or mother had developed a colorectal cancer, then the chances are, even you will develop one.

Genetic alteration or changes in genes like the HNPCC (Hereditary Nonpolyposis Colon Cancer gene), and the APC is the other cause of this disease. A long and extended case of intestinal inflammation, especially in cases of ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease, also causes a colorectal cancer.

Scientists are also looking into the habits of the patients. Although not conclusive in facts, they believe, a high-fat content diet lacking in fiber, calcium and folate may increase the risk of this disease. Smoking is another factor, which is under close observation.

Therefore, we can conclude by saying that in order to avoid the Carcinoma of Colon and Rectum we must go for regular medical check-ups after attaining a certain age. Only then we can dream of a life sans the colorectal cancer.