What is Colon (Intestinal) Cancer? What are the Symptoms of Colon Cancer?

What is Colon (Intestinal) Cancer?

Colon cancer, commonly known as bowel cancer, is a type of cancer that develops in the large intestine and usually originates from small, benign cell growths called polyps. Most of these polyps are harmless, but some can develop into cancer over time. Colon cancer may not cause symptoms in the early stages, making it difficult to detect. Therefore, regular screenings are recommended to reduce the risk of colon cancer and to detect polyps before they become cancerous.

The colon is the organ that makes up the part of the digestive system called the large intestine. If left untreated, colon cancer, which develops in the intestinal wall, can spread beyond the intestine and spread to other organs through the lymph nodes or bloodstream, reaching more advanced stages. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment are vital.

Regular checkups are especially important for individuals over the age of 50 and those with risk factors. Colon cancer screenings allow for early detection and treatment of cancer. Colon cancer and rectal cancer are serious diseases that develop in the lower digestive tract and have a higher chance of cure with early diagnosis.

What Causes Colon (Intestinal) Cancer?

Risk factors for colon cancer include genetic predisposition, inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn's and ulcerative colitis), adenomatous polyps, and a family history of colon cancer. Lifestyle factors such as low-fiber and high-fat diets, lack of physical activity, obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption, and diabetes can also increase the risk.

Colon cancer is generally more common in individuals over the age of 50, but a healthy lifestyle and regular screenings can help reduce the risk.

Causes of colon cancer include:

• Genetic predisposition
• Eating habits
• Lifestyle
• Inflammatory bowel diseases
• Advanced age
• Polyps
• Diabetes and metabolic syndrome

Genetic Predisposition

Genetic predisposition plays a significant role in the development of colon cancer. The risk increases in individuals with a family history of colon cancer. Inherited diseases such as Lynch Syndrome and Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP), in particular, are associated with genetic mutations that can lead to colon cancer. Therefore, it is important for individuals with a family history to undergo regular screening.

Eating Habits

A low-fiber, high-fat diet can increase the risk of colon cancer. The link between excessive consumption of red meat and processed meat products and colon cancer has been scientifically proven. Consuming fiber-rich vegetables, fruits, and whole grains is recommended for a healthy gut.

Inflammatory Bowel Diseases

Intestinal diseases characterized by chronic inflammation, such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, increase the risk of colon cancer. Long-term exposure to these conditions can lead to genetic changes in intestinal cells, initiating the cancerous process.

Age

Colon cancer usually occurs in individuals over the age of 50. Aging can lead to disruptions in cell regeneration mechanisms, increasing the likelihood of colon cells growing abnormally and developing into cancer.

Polyps

Adenomatous polyps, which form in the colon, have the potential to become cancerous. If detected and removed at an early stage, this risk can be eliminated. Early diagnosis and treatment of polyps can be achieved through regular colonoscopy screenings.

Lifestyle

Lack of physical activity, obesity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption are major lifestyle factors that increase the risk of colon cancer. These risks can be reduced by adopting a healthy lifestyle and avoiding harmful habits.

Diabetes and Metabolic Syndrome

Conditions such as diabetes and insulin resistance can increase the risk of colon cancer. High blood sugar levels can cause the uncontrolled growth of intestinal cells. Keeping blood sugar under control and a healthy metabolism can help reduce the risk of colon cancer.

What Are the Symptoms of Colon (Intestinal) Cancer?

Symptoms of colon cancer include blood in the stool, abdominal pain, bloating, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and weakness. Symptoms can often appear in the early stages of cancer, but sometimes they may not be noticed until later stages.

Iron deficiency anemia can also occur frequently due to blood loss. Therefore, when symptoms are noticed, a visit to a gastroenterologist is necessary for early diagnosis.

Common symptoms of colon cancer include:

• Changes in bowel habits
• Persistent constipation or diarrhea
• Stool diameter decrease
• Bright red or dark blood in stool
• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Abdominal bloating and gas
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent fatigue and weakness
• A feeling that the bowels are not emptying completely
• Iron deficiency anemia
• Loss of appetite

Changes in Bowel Habits

One of the earliest signs of colon cancer is a change in bowel habits. Constipation, diarrhea, or thinning stool can persist for weeks.

Normally, bowel movements are regular, but when colon cancer causes an obstruction in the intestine, it can make it difficult to pass stool. This results in a thinner stool diameter, and a person may feel unable to fully evacuate.

Blood in Stool (Rectal Bleeding)

Blood in stool is one of the most noticeable symptoms of colon cancer. The blood can be bright red and usually originates from tumors near the rectum. Darker or black stools may indicate bleeding in the upper digestive tract. Bleeding may not be constant and may only be noticed intermittently.

Abdominal Pain and Cramping

Colon cancer can disrupt the normal functioning of the digestive system due to tumors growing in the intestinal wall. This can cause abdominal pain, a feeling of pressure, and cramping. Abdominal pain, especially after meals, can be accompanied by gas and bloating. The pain can often be concentrated in a specific area and worsen over time.

Unexplained Weight Loss

Colon cancer can affect the body's metabolism, causing rapid and significant weight loss. If a person loses weight despite not dieting or increasing physical activity, this should be taken into consideration. Cancer cells can deplete the body's energy resources and impair the absorption of nutrients in the intestines.

Constant Fatigue and Weakness

Colon cancer can cause hidden blood loss, which can lead to anemia over time. This reduces the body's oxygen-carrying capacity, creating a constant feeling of tiredness and weakness. Fatigue, which normally resolves with rest, becomes constant in colon cancer cases and can negatively impact daily activities.

Feeling of Incomplete Emptying of the Bowel

Colon cancer can cause a narrowing of the bowel, preventing the complete elimination of stool. This may lead a person to feel they are not fully evacuating their bowels, despite feeling the need to go to the toilet frequently. Feeling the need to defecate even after using the toilet can be a symptom of tumors, especially in the rectal area.

Iron Deficiency Anemia

Colon cancer can lead to iron deficiency anemia over time due to hidden bleeding in the intestines. When the body loses blood continuously, it cannot produce enough red blood cells, leading to anemia. Anemia can cause a person to appear pale, experience shortness of breath, and feel constantly tired.

Stage 1 Colon Cancer Symptoms

In stage 1 colon cancer, the tumor is confined to the superficial layers of the intestinal wall. Symptoms are often mild and often go unnoticed. However, careful observation can detect some early signs.

Stage 1 colon cancer symptoms include:

• Changes in bowel habits
• Streaks of blood in the stool
• Occasional mild abdominal discomfort
• Bloating and gas problems
• Mild fatigue

Colon Cancer Stage 2 Symptoms

In this stage, the cancer has reached the deeper layers of the intestinal wall but has not yet spread to the lymph nodes. Symptoms become more pronounced at this stage.

Stage 2 colon cancer symptoms include:

• Blood in the stool (bright red or dark)
• Changing bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea
• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Wicker stool
• A feeling that the bowels are not completely emptying
• Abdominal bloating

Colon Cancer Stage 3 Symptoms

In Stage 3, the cancer has spread to the surrounding lymph nodes. In addition to digestive symptoms, symptoms affecting general health also occur.

Stage 3 colon cancer symptoms include:

• Persistent abdominal pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Constant fatigue and weakness
• Apparent blood in the stool
• Loss of appetite
• Dizziness or shortness of breath due to anemia

Stage 4 Colon Cancer Symptoms

Stage 4 colon cancer is an advanced stage in which the disease has spread to other organs in the body. During this stage, symptoms become systemic, leading to a significant decrease in quality of life.

Stage 4 colon cancer symptoms include:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Persistent nausea and vomiting
• Significant weight loss
• Jaundice (due to liver metastases)
• Shortness of breath
• Severe weakness and fatigue
• Abdominal fluid accumulation (ascites)
• Bone pain (if bone metastases are present)

Colon Cancer Stages

Colon cancer is classified into stages starting from the onset of symptoms. Each stage is important in determining how far the disease has progressed, which treatment methods are available, and how far the cancer has spread.

Stage 0 – Earliest Stage

Stage 0 is the earliest stage of colon cancer. In this stage, abnormal cells are found in the innermost layer of the colon or rectum. This layer, called the mucosa, represents the cancer's starting point. Symptoms are usually absent at this stage, and the disease is usually detected through polyps.

Surgery is usually sufficient at this stage, either a polypectomy or local excision. During a polypectomy, the cancerous polyp is removed using a colonoscopy, and healthy tissue is also removed during the local excision.

Stages I-II

In stage 1 of colon cancer, cancer cells have spread through the mucosa and into the muscle layer of the colon. However, at this stage, the cancer has not spread to the lymph nodes or other tissues. Surgical treatment usually involves removing the cancerous tissue and the associated lymph nodes.

Stage II is the stage where the cancer has spread to the outer layers but not yet reached the lymph nodes. This stage is divided into three categories:

• Stage IIA: Cancer has spread to the muscle layer of the colon.
• Stage IIB: Cancer has spread to the serosa, the outer layer of the colon wall.
• Stage IIC: Cancer has spread beyond the colon wall into nearby tissues.

Stage II treatment is usually performed with a partial colectomy. The surgeon removes the cancerous area and surrounding lymph nodes. In some cases, adjuvant chemotherapy may be recommended for patients. This is done to destroy any remaining cancer cells after surgery.

Stage III-IV

Stage III of colon cancer is characterized by the spread of cancer to nearby lymph nodes. This stage is divided into three subgroups based on the extent of cancer spread:

• Stage IIIA: Cancer has spread through the mucosa and submucosa layers and has reached one to three nearby lymph nodes.
• Stage IIIB: Cancer has spread to the outer layer of the colon wall and has reached nearby lymph nodes.
• Stage IIIC: Cancer has spread from the outer layer of the colon wall to the tissues surrounding the abdominal organs and has also reached more than one lymph node.

In Stage III, the cancerous colon and lymph nodes are surgically removed. Chemotherapy is also administered during this stage.

Stage IV of colon cancer refers to metastatic cancer. In this stage, cancer cells have spread to distant parts of the body through the lymph and bloodstream. The most common sites of metastasis are the lungs and liver.

Stage IV is the most advanced stage of the disease, and treatment options generally focus on relieving symptoms. Each of these stages plays a critical role in colon cancer treatment, and early diagnosis can increase survival rates.

Colon (Intestinal) Cancer Diagnosis

The most important method used in the diagnosis of colon cancer is a colonoscopy, which provides a detailed examination of the lining of the intestine. Additionally, a fecal occult blood test, blood tests (for tumor markers such as CEA), and imaging methods (CT, MRI, PET) are used to support the diagnosis. Because colon cancer detected in its early stages has a high chance of cure, regular screening tests are vital.

Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy is the most effective method used in the diagnosis of colon cancer. A long, flexible tube is used to examine the lining of the intestine, and biopsies can be taken from suspicious lesions. Polyps or early-stage lesions can be removed during a colonoscopy to prevent them from developing into cancer.

Fecal Occult Blood Test

A fecal occult blood test (FOBT) is used to detect bleeding in the intestine. Bleeding can be a sign of colon cancer or polyps. The test is an easy-to-apply screening method and, when performed regularly, contributes to early diagnosis.

Blood Tests

Tumor markers such as CEA (carcinoembryonic antigen) can be measured through blood tests in the diagnosis of colon cancer. These tests are especially important for determining the stage of the disease and for post-treatment follow-up. However, a definitive diagnosis cannot be made solely with blood tests.

Imaging Methods

CT (Computed Tomography), MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), and PET scans are used to assess the spread and stage of colon cancer. These methods help determine whether the tumor has spread to other organs and guide treatment planning.

Colon Cancer Treatment

Colon cancer treatment includes surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and targeted therapies. In early stages, surgical removal of the tumor is usually sufficient. In advanced stages, chemotherapy and radiotherapy can be used to reduce tumor size and control spread. The treatment plan is determined by the stage of the cancer and the patient's general health.

Surgery

Surgical treatment is the most common and effective treatment for colon cancer. Treatment varies depending on the stage of the cancer. Initially, a polypectomy may be performed to remove cancerous polyps. This procedure is performed during a colonoscopy.

If the cancer is more widespread, a partial colectomy may be necessary. If the entire colon needs to be removed, this procedure is called a total colectomy. In some cases, if the patient's condition is not suitable for surgery, a surgical resection with a colostomy may be performed. In this case, the healthy sections cannot be brought together, and stool is collected in a bag.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy plays an important role in the treatment of colon cancer. There are two types of chemotherapy: neoadjuvant and adjuvant. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy is used to reduce the size of the tumor before surgery. Adjuvant chemotherapy helps destroy any remaining cancer cells after surgery. Chemotherapy is administered to halt the progression of the cancer and improve quality of life.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is often used in conjunction with surgery in the treatment of colon cancer. It is administered before surgery to shrink tumors and after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells. Radiotherapy is especially important if there is a risk of the cancer spreading to other organs. The treatment can also improve quality of life if the cancer has metastasized.

Targeted Therapies

Targeted therapies offer a modern approach to colon cancer treatment. This treatment method uses drugs that target specific characteristics of cancer cells. Targeted therapies can generally be administered with or without chemotherapy. By targeting cancer cells, this method has fewer side effects.

Colon cancer treatment options are diverse and customized to the patient's condition. Early diagnosis simplifies the treatment process, while the selection of appropriate methods increases the success of treatment.

Colon Cancer Recovery and Quality of Life

Colon cancer treatment includes a recovery period that significantly impacts patients' quality of life. Post-operative care helps patients quickly return to their normal lives.

Post-Operative Care

Due to the breathing tube used during surgery, the throat may feel sore for a few days. The nasogastric tube is removed after surgery, and the patient usually begins taking fluids the next day. In the first few days, solid foods should not be introduced until gas is passed. If nausea or vomiting occurs, the tube is reinserted. It is recommended that the patient be fed slowly.

Exercising on the first day of surgery helps prevent problems such as blood clots. The hospital stay can vary from 3 to 6 days, depending on the type of surgery. After returning home, walking strengthens muscles and increases circulation. Heavy lifting and abdominal exercises should be avoided for six weeks. A soft diet, excluding raw fruits and vegetables, is recommended.

Lifestyle Changes

A diagnosis of colon cancer can create emotional challenges for patients. Symptoms of depression and anxiety should not be ignored. Mental health can affect the recovery process. Patients can find relief through the following methods:

• Treatments such as massage and acupuncture, as recommended by your doctor
• Joining support groups that share similar experiences
• Doing deep breathing and relaxation exercises throughout the day
• Engaging in enjoyable activities with a supportive friend
• Avoiding alcohol and tobacco products

Supporting someone you know who is undergoing colon cancer treatment can contribute to their recovery.

How to Prevent Colon Cancer?

Embracing healthy lifestyle habits and participating in regular screening tests is crucial for preventing colon cancer. Increasing physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and following a nutritious diet are effective ways to reduce the risk of colon cancer.

Regular Screening Tests

Colon cancer is a frequently diagnosed type of cancer. Regular screening tests can save lives by identifying early warning signs. These screenings allow for the detection of polyps before they become cancerous. Early diagnosis facilitates the treatment process by providing more treatment options. Therefore, regular screening before symptoms appear is an important way to reduce the risk of colon cancer.

Healthy Lifestyle Habits

Good eating habits play a critical role in reducing the risk of colon cancer. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is the foundation of a healthy lifestyle. Increasing your daily fiber intake, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding processed foods are also beneficial. Fiber-rich foods, such as whole wheat bread, brown rice, legumes, and nuts, are recommended for a healthy diet.

Red meat consumption should be limited, and processed meat products, such as sausages and sucuk, should be avoided. Regular physical activity is also important; at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week can both protect heart health and reduce the risk of cancer. Furthermore, avoiding alcohol and tobacco products is among the factors that minimize the risk of colon cancer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Colon Cancer

Is Colon Cancer Completely Treatable?

Colon cancer is completely treatable when diagnosed early and appropriate treatment methods are applied. Treatment depends on the stage of the cancer, the patient's general health, and other factors.

At What Age Should a Colonoscopy Be Performed?

Colonoscopy is an important screening method for the early detection of colon cancer. It is generally recommended to have a colonoscopy every year, starting at age 45, or at regular intervals as recommended by your doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer symptoms manifest as significant changes in digestive system functions and deterioration in general health. The most common symptoms include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, and persistent fatigue.

Can Colon Cancer Be Diagnosed Before Symptoms Appear?

Yes, colon cancer can be diagnosed with screening tests before symptoms appear. Regular colonoscopies are particularly effective in detecting colon polyps and early stages of cancer. Because colon cancer often presents no symptoms at first, regular screening helps detect cancer at an early stage and increases the chance of a cure.

What Are the First Symptoms of Colon Cancer?

The first symptoms of colon cancer often appear as prolonged constipation or diarrhea, blood in the stool, and unexplained weight loss. Abdominal bloating, gas, and cramping pain may also be felt. Patients may also notice persistent fatigue and changes in bowel movements.

What is the Risk of Death from Colon Cancer?

The risk of death from colon cancer depends on the stage of diagnosis and the response to treatment. While the survival rate is up to 90% in cases diagnosed early, this rate can drop to 10-20% in advanced stages. Regular screenings and a healthy lifestyle play an important role in preventing colon cancer.

Is There a Chance of Survival from Colon Cancer?

If colon cancer is diagnosed early, the chance of responding to treatment and a complete recovery is quite high. It is possible to control the disease with methods such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Even in advanced stages, appropriate treatment can prolong life and improve quality of life.

Where Does Colon Cancer Pain Affect?

Colon cancer pain is usually felt in the abdominal area and may feel like gas or cramps. The pain can radiate to the lower back or groin. In some patients, sharp and severe pain may occur if a bowel obstruction develops.

What Are the First Symptoms of Colon Cancer?

The first symptoms of colon cancer are usually abdominal pain and changes in bowel movements. Persistent diarrhea, constipation, or blood in the stool may also occur. What

Happens in Stage 1 Colon Cancer?

In Stage 1 colon cancer, cancer cells have spread to the colon. At this stage, symptoms such as abdominal pain and blood in the stool may occur, and surgery may be necessary.

How is a Colon Cancer Test Done at Home?

A colon cancer test can be performed at home using kits that detect occult blood in stool. The test involves dipping the swab in the stool and placing it in a tube. After this process, the stool sample is sent to the laboratory.

What Test is Used to Detect Colon Cancer?

If colon cancer is suspected, a stool test may be performed first. A definitive diagnosis of colon cancer can be made through colonoscopy and biopsy.