Colon cancer is a serious condition that requires expert care and treatment. At the Colorectal Division of North Carolina Surgery at UNC REX in Raleigh, colon cancer is treated by our highly trained and experienced colorectal specialists.
Understanding Colon Cancer
Colon cancer develops when normal cells in the colon undergo changes that cause them to grow uncontrollably, forming tumors that can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. It involves several types of cancer that arise in the colon from small abnormal growths called polyps. The most common type of colon cancer is adenocarcinoma, which starts in the colonic lining.
The colon (large intestine or bowel) is one of the last parts of the lower digestive tract. In the colon, nutrients and water are reabsorbed into the body, leaving behind waste (stool) until your body eliminates it through a bowel movement.
Recognizing the Symptoms
A large or more advanced cancerous tumor may cause symptoms such as:
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Bloody stools
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
While the cancerous tumor remains small, you may not experience any symptoms. A doctor may only find it on a screening colonoscopy. This is why routine screening is so important, particularly for individuals over 50 and those with elevated risk factors.
Causes of Colon Cancer
Though doctors do not know the exact cause of colon cancer, risk factors include:
- Age (especially over 50)
- Low-fiber/high-fat diet
- Family history of colon cancer
- Lynch syndrome
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
- Heavy alcohol use
- Obesity
- Family history of colorectal cancer
- Smoking
Diagnosing Colon Cancer
If you have symptoms of colon cancer and/or abnormal screening results, your doctor will refer you to a colorectal specialist for further evaluation. We use advanced diagnostic techniques (including colonoscopy, imaging studies, and tissue biopsy) to accurately diagnose and stage colon cancer. This comprehensive evaluation helps determine the extent of the disease and guides the development of your personalized treatment plan.
Treatment for Colon Cancer
Depending on the stage of the cancer and your symptoms at the time of diagnosis, treatment can include surgery alone, or surgery and chemotherapy. Colon cancer surgery consists of a colectomy (removing the diseased portion of the colon). Occasionally, radiation therapy can be recommended. Your North Carolina surgery team will help you plan the most effective treatment based on many different factors, which we’ll discuss during your consultation at our Raleigh clinic.
Related Procedures & Surgeries
Learn more about the procedures and surgeries that our team offers.
Colon Cancer Treatment Recovery
During your recovery from colon cancer treatment, it’s essential to follow your provider’s instructions regarding wound care, gradually increasing physical activity, and attending all follow-up appointments. You should contact your colorectal surgeon immediately if you experience signs of infection, such as fever, increased pain, excessive bleeding, or changes in bowel function. Our team will provide detailed post-operative care instructions and remain available to address any questions or concerns throughout your recovery process.
Benefits of Colon Cancer Treatment at UNC REX
- Effective symptom relief
- Improved quality of life
- Minimally invasive surgical approaches when appropriate
- Improved recovery times with advanced techniques
FAQs
Can colon cancer be prevented?
While colon cancer cannot always be prevented, regular screenings can detect precancerous polyps before they become problematic. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a high-fiber diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol can also reduce your risk.
How often should I be screened for colon cancer?
Most people should begin regular colon cancer screening at age 50, with colonoscopy typically recommended every 10 years if results are normal. However, those with family history or other risk factors may need to start screening earlier and more frequently as recommended by their physician.
Schedule Your Appointment
If you or your primary care provider believes you have symptoms of colon cancer, our Raleigh-based colorectal specialists are here to help. Contact the Colorectal Division of North Carolina Surgery at UNC REX today to schedule your first appointment with a member of our dedicated team.