Colon Cancer Angela Lavrisiuk Colon Cancer is when a cancerous tumor forms in the colon.

Causes Research shows a diet high in fats can lead to colon cancer When chromosomal damage has been done to cells in the Colon, they form precancerous polyps. Polyps usually don’t turn cancerous till additional chromosomal damage takes place. 80% of colon cancers happen in families with no history of colon cancer. 5% of cancers are due to heredity. People with family history of the cancer are at high risk for getting the cancer early in life.

Detection Colonoscopy CT scans (if cancer spreads) Barium Enema X-rays

Stages Stage 1- Survival rate is 90% Cancer is only in the innermost layer of the colon. Stage 2- Greater growth of tumor Stage 3- Cancer spreads to lymph nodes Stage 4- Cancer spreads around to other organs of the body far away from the original tumor.

Effect on Body Sometimes nausea or uneasiness might occur, but not always. Colon cancer doesn’t show a large effect on the body, unless it spreads to important organs such as the lungs.

Treatments Colonoscopy- Sometimes small polyps can be removed during the procedure. Surgery- Larger masses can be removed by a surgical procedure. After surgery (if needed): Chemotherapy and/or Radiation Therapy

Is there a Cure? No actual cure to the cancer except through surgery or removal of early polyps. Colon Cancer, if reached 3rd stage, could always return later on in life. Colon Cancer isn’t 100% preventative.

Prevention A healthy diet full of vegetables and needed vitamins is a way to help prevent colon cancer, though it is still possible to get the cancer with a healthy diet. At age 40, colonoscopies should be done every 10 years If your family has a history, start going at age 30 or sooner, and go for one every 5 years instead of 10.

Additional Facts Colon cancer is slow developing, it takes years to develop. Early cancer doesn’t have any symptoms. Spread of the cancer to lung and liver is very common New ways of detecting the cancer and preventing the cancer are being found every day.

Support Groups & Awareness March is Colon Cancer Awareness month. The Colon Cancer Alliance is a group that informs people about the cancer and offers support.

Sources http://www.ccalliance.org/ http://www.medicinenet.com/colon_cancer/page2.htm#What_are_the_causes_of_colon_cancer