Primary Treatment for Colon Rectal Cancer

Colon and rectal cancer also called colorectal cancer, is characterized by abnormal growth and multiplication of cells lining the colon and rectum. As per the National Cancer Institute, nearly 150,000 cases of colorectal cancer are diagnosed annually in the United States. Despite no complete cure, effective treatments are available to control the metastasis and proliferation of cancer cells.

Treatment Forms

• Surgical removal of the cancerous cells and tumors is one of the common treatment forms which is administered to colorectal cancer patients. In case of the cancer recurrence threat, chemotherapy and radiotherapy are also recommended to prevent the spreading of the malignant cells.

Time Frame

• Duration for the treatment methods vary, nonetheless in most cases chemotherapy is administered for close to five to six months, while you are exposed to radiotherapy regularly for nearly two to three months.

5-Year Survival Rates

• According to the National Cancer Institute, relative 5-year survival rate for colorectal cancer for 1999 to 2005 was approximately 66 percent.

Effects

• Extreme pain and bleeding are some of the side effects that you might experience post resection (surgery). Hair loss, appetite reduction, tiredness are side effects linked with chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Prevention/Solution

• Quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, avoiding exposure to environmental toxins and pollutants are some of the preventive steps you can take to avoid cancer development in the body (including colorectal cancer).