Colorectal cancer develops when cells in the bowel begin to grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor that damages the bowel tissues. Over time, it can spread to other organs.
In the first stage, the tumor is already visible and grows from the mucosa into the submucosal layer, but it has not yet affected lymph nodes and has not metastasized .
Bowel cancer can occur in people of any age, but there are risk factors:
- age over 50 years
- family history of bowel cancer
- personal history of cancer, Crohn's disease, Lynch syndrome
- large polyps (>1 cm)
- obesity, diabetes, smoking, alcohol
- sedentary lifestyle
- a diet high in fat and processed meat
- radiotherapy in the past
What is bowel cancer?
Colorectal cancer develops when cells in the bowel begin to grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor that damages the bowel tissues. Over time, it can spread to other organs.
In the first stage, the tumor is already visible and grows from the mucosa into the submucosal layer, but it has not yet affected lymph nodes and has not metastasized .
Bowel cancer can occur in people of any age, but there are risk factors:
- age over 50 years
- family history of bowel cancer
- personal history of cancer, Crohn's disease, Lynch syndrome
- large polyps (>1 cm)
- obesity, diabetes, smoking, alcohol
- sedentary lifestyle
- a diet high in fat and processed meat
- radiotherapy in the past
6 early signs of bowel cancer (stage 1)
The initial symptoms may be mild, but they are what help detect the disease in time.
1. Change in bowel habits
Constipation, diarrhea, frequent urges, a feeling of incomplete bowel movement occur. The tumor interferes with the normal passage of stool, causing discomfort and sometimes partial obstruction.
2. Change in stool form
Thin, “ribbon-like” stools indicate a narrowing of the intestinal lumen. Mucus, blood, excessive dryness, or fluid with blood streaks may be present.
3. Abdominal pain
Usually dull and constant, most often low in the abdomen. Antispasmodics are of little help.
4. Loss of appetite and fatigue
Microbleeds can lead to anemia, which causes weakness, dizziness, and general exhaustion.
5. Digestive disorders
Bloating, heaviness after eating, belching, diarrhea. Symptoms are nonspecific, but can be an early signal.
6. Unexplained weight loss
Weight loss without a change in lifestyle is a characteristic sign of cancer.
As the disease progresses, the following occur:
- dark blood in the stool
- severe pain
- significant swelling
- fatigue
- nausea
- rapid weight loss
Can bowel cancer be cured?
Yes. In the early stages, it is treated successfully, with the main method being surgical removal of the tumor.
When to see a doctor
If within 2 weeks the following persist:
- blood in the stool
- constipation or diarrhea
- change in stool form
- swelling, pain
- weakness and weight loss
It is necessary to conduct a study as soon as possible .
Who should get screened?
- people over 40–50 years old
- in case of heredity
- in the presence of polyps or inflammatory bowel diseases
Methods: stool test for occult bleeding, complete blood count, colonoscopy, CT scan, barium x-ray.
How to reduce the risk
- Eating a diet high in fiber and less red meat
- Daily physical activity
- Weight control
- Limiting alcohol and quitting smoking
- Regular preventive examinations
Early detection is the key to a complete cure.
⚠️ Disclaimer
The information in this text is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for consultation with a doctor or medical professional . If you have symptoms or concerns, seek professional medical attention.
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