Most Common Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer in Young People
Common Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer: Colorectal cancers usually affect the pelvis and are common worldwide. These types of cancers carry a high risk, which can have severe consequences, including death.
Age is the leading risk factor, with the number of cases occurring in individuals 50 and older. Symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and blood in the stool are indicative, although many remain asymptomatic at first. Following a healthy lifestyle, including diet and exercise, and avoiding tobacco and alcohol abuse can reduce the risk. Regular testing is vital for early detection. Colorectal cancer is the number one and second leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide, with 1.9 million new cases and 930,000 deaths by 2020, emphasizing its importance that they try to understand and prevent it. Let’s dive deeper to learn about the symptoms of colorectal cancer and when to consult a GI Surgeon in Jaipur.
What are the Risk Factors of Colorectal Cancer?
- Age: Colorectal cancer is usually diagnosed in individuals over the age of 50. As people age, their cells undergo many mutations, and their ability to repair damaged DNA decreases, making them more susceptible to cancer. As a result, therefore, screening for colorectal cancer usually starts at 50 years of age.
- Family history: Individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer are at increased risk of developing the disease themselves. This risk increases if a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) has had colorectal cancer. In addition, certain genetic traits, such as Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), increase the risk of colorectal cancer.
- Personal history: Individuals with a previous diagnosis of colorectal cancer are at increased risk for recurrence. Similarly, individuals with certain polyps, particularly adenomatous polyps, are also at increased risk. Adenomatous polyps are recognized as precursors to colorectal cancer. Thus, their presence signifies an elevated risk of developing cancer.
- Lifestyle factors: Many lifestyle choices can increase the risk of colorectal cancer. These include:
- Eat more processed meats and fewer fruits and vegetables: Processed meats contain substances that can damage the colon’s lining, increasing the risk of cancer. In contrast, fruits and vegetables have antioxidants and lots of bacteria and fiber, which can help protect the colon from cancer.
- Sedentary habits: Lack of physical activity can lead to obesity and other metabolic changes that increase the risk of colorectal cancer. Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight and reduces inflammation, reducing cancer risk.
Symptoms
Colorectal cancer often has no symptoms in the early stages. Regular screenings are essential to catch the disease early and begin treatment.
Common symptoms include:
- Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool
- Blood in the stool (rectal bleeding),
- Abdominal cramps, pain, or bloating,
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Feeling constantly tired and lacking energy,
- Iron deficiency due to chronic bleeding,
- Fatigue, weakness, and paleness.
Prevention
Lifestyle changes and regular screening can help prevent colorectal cancer. These changes include:
- Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables
- Not smoking tobacco
- Keep an active lifestyle
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Avoid exposure to environmental risk factors.
Diagnosis
Diagnostic methods for colorectal cancer entail a comprehensive approach:
Physical examination: Healthcare professionals assess signs and symptoms, including changes in bowel habits or abdominal discomfort.
Imaging techniques: Abdominal ultrasound, computed tomography scans, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provide detailed images of the colon and surrounding tissues, aiding in tumor detection and staging.
Endoscopic examination: Colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy allows direct visualization of the colon’s interior, enabling the detection of polyps or tumors.
Tissue sampling: Biopsy procedures collect tissue samples for histopathological examination, confirming cancer diagnosis and determining its characteristics.
Molecular testing: Analysis of specific genetic mutations or biomarkers helps tailor treatment strategies for optimal efficacy and patient outcomes.
Treatment and Care
As per a GI surgeon in Jaipur, Treatments for colorectal cancer are based on the type and progression of the cancer and the person’s medical history. Early detection of colorectal cancer can lead to better treatments and outcomes.
Treatments include:
- Surgery: Primary treatment involves removing the tumor and affected tissue through procedures like colectomy or rectal resection.
- Radiotherapy: High-energy radiation beams target and destroy cancer cells before or after surgery or as palliative care.
- Chemotherapy: Powerful medications kill or slow cancer cell growth, administered orally or intravenously, often in combination with other treatments.
- Targeted Therapy: Drugs specifically target molecules or pathways involved in cancer growth, minimizing harm to healthy cells, and are used alongside other treatments.
- Immunotherapy: Boosts the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells, including immune checkpoint inhibitors and adoptive cell therapy, which are especially effective for specific genetic mutations.
FAQs: Common Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer
1. What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer in young people?
Common symptoms include bowel changes, such as nausea or vomiting, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain or nausea, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue.
2. How do pancreatic changes predict pancreatic cancer in young people?
Changes such as persistent nausea or vomiting may indicate a problem with colon function, which is often indicative of colorectal cancer.
3. Is rectal bleeding an essential symptom of colorectal cancer in young adults?
Yes, rectal bleeding, especially when accompanied by other symptoms, can indicate rectal cancer and should be investigated immediately by a health care professional.
4. Why should young people focus on weight loss and unexplained fatigue?
Unexplained weight loss and fatigue may indicate advanced colorectal cancer as the tumor progresses and affects overall health, and timely medical diagnosis is needed if they are involved.
