Everything to Know About Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer stands among the three common cancers in the US. It usually occurs in people aged 50 years and above. It starts developing in the colon and does not show any early signs. You can prevent colon cancer through regular screening, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and reducing your alcohol intake. There are also successful treatments that prevent loss of life. The colorectal cancer Houston specialist Vikram S Jayanty, MD, offers exceptional colorectal cancer to help you survive. This article provides you with all you need to know about it.

What is colorectal cancer?

It affects the colon or the rectum. It is common, affecting about 6% of American adults. With regular screening, you can detect cancer early, enhancing treatment that carries a high survival rate.

Colorectal cancer screening is among the most effective approaches to prevention and detecting it early. Having regular colonoscopies can lower the risk of colorectal cancer by 90%.

What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer?

Usually, you may not experience any symptoms during the early stages. But in the advanced stages, it causes different symptoms, such as constipation, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and changes in bowel habits. You may also experience weakness and sudden weight loss.

Some symptoms vary depending on which side of the body the lesions are on. For instance, colon cancer on your right side may not cause severe abdominal pain but have a high chance of causing weight loss.

Digestive conditions such as bowel syndrome, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis may have symptoms similar to colorectal cancer. Hence, it’s essential to have a comprehensive diagnosis with Dr. Jayanty to confirm the cause of your synonyms.

Who needs colorectal cancer screening?

Regular screenings are critical for all people aged 50 and above. If you have existing risks for cancer, you might want to begin your screenings earlier.

Some factors that increase your risk for colorectal cancer include a family history of cancer, smoking, obesity, and an unhealthy diet. You may also have a chance of colon cancer if you have a history of precancerous polyps.

Ensure you call Vikram S. Jayanty, MD, if you have gastrointestinal symptoms for a proper diagnosis.

How does colorectal cancer screening work?

Colonoscopy is among the most common methods for screening colorectal cancer. Your provider uses colonoscopy to diagnose precancerous polyps. They may remove the polyps to lower your risk of getting colorectal cancer.

Other tests used in colorectal screening include blood tests, stool tests, and CT scans. Your provider works with you to determine the best test for you.

Is colorectal cancer treatable?

Yes, there are effective treatments for colorectal cancer, especially when detected early. However, prevention is the best treatment. Your treatment varies based on the severity of your symptoms and cancer growth.

Colorectal cancer treatment options include radiofrequency ablation, surgery, chemotherapy, cryosurgery, and monoclonal antibody treatments. Dr. Jayanty offers clinical trials to inform you about the latest and advanced treatment.

Contact Vikram S. Jayanty, MD, today to schedule your screening for colorectal cancer.