Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death, and both
men and women are at risk. Colon cancer is associated with lifestyle choices:
exercising, eating a healthy diet high in vegetables, fruits, and whole
grains, and maintaining a healthy weight are a few simple steps people
can take to reduce the risk of colon cancer. Obesity, physical inactivity,
consumption of red meats and processed meats, a high fat, low-fiber diet,
smoking, and alcohol use are all associated with an increased risk of
colon cancer. Other risk factors include a personal or family history
of colon polyps (precancerous growths) or cancers, a personal history
of inflammatory bowel disease, or a hereditary colorectal cancer syndrome.
The Valley Health Cancer Center at Winchester Medical Center was the first
in our tri-state region to earn accreditation by the National Accreditation
Program for Rectal Cancer. Accredited since 2021, our program has been designed to provide comprehensive
care to patients with rectal cancer using a multidisciplinary, coordinated
team approach.
Click here to learn more about this accreditation.
Screening
Anyone can get colon cancer although it is most frequently diagnosed in
those over age 50. In 2018, the American Cancer Society updated its guideline
for colorectal cancer screening. The recommendations call for screening
to begin at age 45 for those at average risk of developing colorectal
cancer; those at higher risk should be screened sooner. Researchers have
seen an increasing risk of colorectal cancer in younger adults, who are
more likely to be diagnosed with the disease in its later stages. If you
are over age 45, discuss your personal colorectal cancer prevention strategy
with your primary care provider.
The most widely recommended preventive test is a
colonoscopy, the process of looking at the internal lining of the colon with a camera.
Other screening options such as fecal testing for blood or DNA and virtual
colonoscopy are available, although these alternative methods cannot be
used to remove polyps if they are found.
Screening colonoscopies are performed at most Valley Health hospitals and
the Endoscopy Center at Winchester Medical Center. Several Valley Health
specialists including gastroenterologists and general surgeons perform
colonoscopies.
Anyone of any age who is experiencing symptoms of colorectal cancer should
consult their primary care provider.
The most common signs and symptoms include:
Change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of
the stool, that last for more than a few days
Rectal bleeding
Dark stools or blood in your stools
Cramping and/or abdominal (belly) pain
Weakness and fatigue
Unintended weight loss
A feeling that you need to have a bowel movement that is not relieved by doing so
Diagnosis and Treatment
The goal of colorectal cancer screening is to remove polyps inside the
colon or rectum before they become cancerous, or to detect cancers at
an early, curable stage. This is effective because it generally takes
10-15 years for a cancer to develop, usually after progressing through
the polyp stage. Diagnosis of colorectal cancer may require further evaluation
and follow-up such as a biopsy.
Surgery remains the primary treatment for most patients diagnosed with
cancer of the colon or rectum. Treatment options such as chemotherapy
and radiation can be used before or after surgery. Every patient’s
ideal treatment plan is different.
Surgery
Minimally invasive surgery is being used increasingly for treatment of
colorectal cancer. At Winchester Medical Center, we offer advanced surgical
treatments including robot-assisted techniques. While not all patients
are candidates for robotic surgery, the advanced technology may expand
the number of patients eligible for a minimally invasive operation for
colorectal cancer.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation can be used before rectal cancer surgery to shrink a tumor and
make it easier to remove. It can also be used after surgery to kill any
cancer cells left behind. Sometimes it is used in combination with chemotherapy.
Radiation is not commonly used to treat colon cancer.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy drugs are administered through an IV and, similar to radiation
therapy, may be given before or after surgery.
With enhanced early detection methods and advanced cancer care treatment,
Valley Health is committed to beating cancer and helping our community
live healthier, together.
Contact us today for more information.
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