Colon or the large intestine is the last part of the gastrointestinal (digestive) tract that connects the small intestine with the rectum. Cancer originating in this place is called colon cancer. It usually begins in the form of polyps (small clumps of non-cancerous cells). These polyps, at a later stage, become malignant tumors i.e. cancer. Colon cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, however, its risk can be reduced by adopting some preventive measures.

Risk Factors

Though colon cancer can affect men and women of all ages, older adults are at a higher risk. Below are some other factors that can increase the chances of colon cancer:

• 1. Family history of cancer
• 2. History of chronic colon infection
• 3. Presence of intestinal polyps
• 4. Personal history of colorectal polyps or cancer
• 5. Over-consumption of red meat, highly processed foods, or a high-fat diet
• 6. Consumption of a low-fiber diet
• 7. Obesity or sedentary lifestyle
• 8. Smoking and alcohol consumption

Symptoms

No symptom might appear at the initial stages- they start appearing only when cancer attains a significant size. This might vary depending upon the size and location of cancer. Some common symptoms are:

• 1. Change in bowel habits
• 2. Visible blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
• 3. Unexplained weight loss
• 4. Loss of appetite
• 5. Weakness or fatigue
• 6. Persistent discomfort in the abdomen (pain or cramps)

Prevention

The below-mentioned preventive measures can reduce the risk of colon cancer:

• 1. Taking a healthy diet: Fruits, vegetables and whole grains should be incorporated in the diet as they are rich in vitamins, minerals, fibre and antioxidants. Consumption of high-fat and processed foods should be reduced.
• 2. Quitting smoking: Smoking can pose many adverse effects on health, hence, one should quit it for good as soon as possible.
• 3. Reducing alcohol consumption: While it is suggested to avoid drinking alcohol at all, but if not possible, it should be consumed in a limited amount.
• 4. Becoming physically active: Exercising and maintaining a healthy body weight can help prevent many health concerns including colon cancer.
• 5. Undergoing periodic screening: Colon cancer screening is usually suggested for people above the ages of 50. However, if a person is at a high risk of developing cancer or observes symptoms, screening tests should be considered for early diagnosis and treatment.

Treatment Options

Colon cancer treatment options majorly include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted drug therapy, immunotherapy and supportive (palliative) care. The kind of treatment suggested for a patient depends upon the size, location and stage of cancer. Sometimes, doctors may suggest a combination therapy, for example, combining chemotherapy with radiation therapy.

The Bottom Line

Adopting a healthy lifestyle can help prevent many serious health concerns including colon cancer. However, if one observes any signs and symptoms, a doctor or an oncologist must be consulted at the earliest because early diagnosis and treatment can improve the recovery rate in most types of cancer. Also, advancement in treatment methodologies, techniques and equipment has increased the survival rates of patients in the later stages as well. HJ Hospitals in Kinshasa is one such well-equipped centre that is manned by top oncology surgeons and other specialities. Not just that, it also houses world-class healthcare facilities for other treatment methods such as knee replacement, digestive surgery, ophthalmologic surgery etc. Hence, people of Kinshasa and the rest of the DRC can access top-notch medical services at ease.

The exclusive mobile health application by HJ Hospitals offers services such as tele-consultation and doorstep delivery of medicines, among others to take better care of their patient’s health and overall wellness.