Colon Cancer: Symptoms, Stages, and Treatment

Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer when combined with rectal cancer, is a serious and increasingly common disease that starts in the large intestine (colon). It usually begins as small, noncancerous clumps of cells called polyps that can become malignant over time. Early detection is critical. When diagnosed in the early stages, colon cancer is often treatable and even curable. Understanding the symptoms, stages, treatment options, and preventive strategies is essential to improving outcomes and reducing risks.

What is Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer occurs when cells in the colon grow uncontrollably and form tumours. This type of cancer typically affects older adults, but it can develop at any age. It often begins as benign polyps on the inner lining of the colon, which may eventually turn cancerous. Because colon cancer may not cause symptoms in the early stages, routine screening is crucial, especially after age 45.

Rectal Cancer vs. Colon Cancer

Rectal cancer is a closely related condition that starts in the rectum the last several inches of the colon. Together, they are referred to as colorectal cancer. While they share many similarities, treatment approaches may differ based on location.

Colon Cancer Symptoms

Colon cancer symptoms vary depending on the cancer’s size and location in the large intestine. In the early stages, symptoms can be subtle or absent, but as the disease progresses, the following signs may appear:

• Persistent changes in bowel habits: Diarrhoea, constipation, or a change in stool consistency lasting more than a few days.
• Rectal bleeding or blood in stool: Bright red or dark-coloured blood may be visible.
• Abdominal discomfort: Cramps, gas, or pain that doesn’t go away.
• Incomplete bowel emptying: A feeling that the bowel doesn’t empty completely after a bowel movement.
• Weakness or fatigue: Often due to blood loss or cancer-related metabolic changes.
• Unexplained weight loss: A sudden drop in weight without changes in diet or activity.

If any of these symptoms persist, consult a healthcare provider immediately. Early diagnosis can significantly improve the success rate of colon cancer treatment.

Colon Cancer Diagnosis

Early and accurate diagnosis is key to managing colon cancer effectively. Diagnostic tests include:

• Colonoscopy: The most reliable method, it allows doctors to view the colon and remove suspicious polyps for biopsy.
• Stool tests: Fecal immunochemical tests (FIT) or stool DNA tests can detect blood or genetic markers of cancer.
• CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy): A less invasive imaging test to view the colon and rectum.
• Biopsy and lab analysis: Tissue samples are examined for cancer cells.
• Blood tests: Tests such as carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) help assess the presence and progression of cancer.

Regular screening, especially after age 45 or earlier if there’s a family history, is vital in detecting colon cancer early.

Colon Cancer Stages

Staging describes the extent of the cancer and helps determine the most appropriate treatment plan. The stages of colon cancer are:

• Stage 0 (Carcinoma in situ): Abnormal cells are found only in the innermost lining of the colon.
• Stage I: Cancer has grown into the inner layers but hasn’t spread beyond the colon wall.
• Stage II: Cancer has spread through the colon wall but not to nearby lymph nodes.
• Stage III: Cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes but not distant organs.
• Stage IV: Cancer has metastasised to other organs such as the liver or lungs.

The stage at diagnosis greatly influences treatment options and survival rates.

Colon Cancer Treatment

Treatment for colon cancer depends on the cancer stage, location, and overall health of the patient. Common treatment strategies include:

1. Surgery

Surgical removal of the cancerous part of the colon is the most common treatment for early-stage colon cancer. Procedures include:

• Polypectomy: Removal of small, localised polyps during colonoscopy.
• Partial colectomy: Removal of the section of the colon containing cancer.
• Lymph node dissection: Nearby lymph nodes are also removed to check for spread.

2. Chemotherapy

Used after surgery (adjuvant therapy) or when surgery is not possible, chemotherapy drugs help kill cancer cells and prevent recurrence.

3. Radiation Therapy

More commonly used for rectal cancer, radiation targets cancer cells with high-energy rays and is sometimes combined with chemotherapy.

4. Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy

Advanced cases may benefit from drugs that target specific cancer cell genes or boost the immune system to fight cancer.

5. Palliative Care

For advanced-stage colon cancer, treatment may focus on symptom relief and improving quality of life.

Colon Cancer Prevention

While not all cases are preventable, several strategies can reduce the risk of colon cancer:

• Get screened regularly: Especially after age 45.
• Maintain a healthy diet: Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and fibre while limiting red and processed meats.
• Exercise regularly: Physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight and reduce cancer risk.
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol: Both are linked to a higher risk of colorectal cancer.
• Manage weight: Obesity is a known risk factor.
• Know your family history: Genetic predisposition increases the risk; early screening may be advised.

Vaccination isn’t directly related to colon cancer prevention, but healthy lifestyle choices significantly contribute to cancer prevention overall.

When to See a Doctor?

If you notice persistent changes in bowel habits, blood in your stool, or unexplained fatigue or weight loss, consult a healthcare provider. Don’t ignore the signs. Early-stage colon cancer may not cause pain, but it’s easier to treat and often curable when caught early.

Visit a Best Gastroenterology Hospital in Bangalore for accurate screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Gastroenterologists specialise in digestive system disorders and can guide you through the entire process of colon cancer care. If you’re searching for the Best Gastroenterologists in Bangalore, look for specialists experienced in colonoscopy, cancer screening, and gastrointestinal oncology.

Conclusion

Colon cancer is a serious but often preventable and treatable disease when detected early. Recognising symptoms like persistent bowel changes, rectal bleeding, or fatigue can lead to a timely diagnosis. Understanding the stages of colon cancer helps patients make informed decisions about treatment options. Regular screenings, a healthy lifestyle, and prompt medical attention remain the best defences against colon and rectal cancer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the first signs of colon cancer?

The earliest signs can include persistent diarrhoea or constipation, blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and abdominal discomfort. These symptoms often overlap with less serious conditions, so timely screening is crucial.

How is colon cancer diagnosed?

Colon cancer is diagnosed through colonoscopy, biopsy, imaging tests, and blood work. Regular screening is recommended from age 45 onward, or earlier for those with risk factors.

Can colon cancer be prevented?

Yes. Regular screening, maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, and managing weight all help reduce the risk of colon cancer.