Colon and Rectal Cancer: What’s the Difference?
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in the United States. It is important to understand the difference between colon and rectal cancer in order to get the best possible treatment.
Colon cancer starts in the colon, which is the longest part of the large intestine. It is responsible for absorbing water from waste and storing stool until it is passed out of the body.
Rectal cancer starts in the rectum, which is the last 6-8 inches of the large intestine. It connects the colon to the anus.
Symptoms of colon and rectal cancer
The symptoms of colon and rectal cancer are often similar. They can include:
* A change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or a change in the size or shape of your stools
* Blood in your stool
* Abdominal pain or cramping
* Weight loss
* Fatigue
* Anemia
Risk factors for colon and rectal cancer
The risk factors for colon and rectal cancer include:
* Age: The risk of colon and rectal cancer increases with age.
* Family history: People with a family history of colon or rectal cancer are at an increased risk.
* Inflammatory bowel disease: People with inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, are at an increased risk.
* Obesity: Obese people are at an increased risk.
* Physical inactivity: People who are physically inactive are at an increased risk.
* Smoking: Smokers are at an increased risk.
* Alcohol consumption: Heavy alcohol consumption is a risk factor.
Treatment for colon and rectal cancer
The treatment for colon and rectal cancer depends on the stage of the cancer. The stages of colon and rectal cancer are determined by how far the cancer has spread.
The treatments for colon and rectal cancer include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy.
Prognosis for colon and rectal cancer
The prognosis for colon and rectal cancer depends on the stage of the cancer and the patient's overall health. The earlier the cancer is diagnosed and treated, the better the prognosis.