Colorectal cancers are the common gastrointestinal malignancies in the world and in India it is the 8 th most common malignanacy followed by rectum. Regular screening is essential for early detection, especially for individuals over 50 years old or those with a family history of colon cancer. Different screening methods, include colonoscopy, fecal occult blood tests (FOBT), and stool DNA tests.
Preventive measures for colorectal cancers include
- Consuming balanced diet high in fiber, fruits, and vegetables, and low in red and processed meats
- Regular physical activity
- Avoiding smoking, excessive alcohol consumption
- Maintaining a healthy weight
Treatment modalities for carcinoma colon include
- Surgery is the primary treatment for colon cancer involves surgery to remove the tumor and nearby lymph nodes. Surgeons aim to remove the cancerous part of the colon and reattach the healthy portions. In some cases, a colostomy may be necessary, where a portion of the colon is brought to the abdominal surface to create an opening (stoma) for waste to pass through into a bag outside the body.
- Chemotherapy aims to shrink the tumor and slow down or stop the cancer from growing. Chemotherapy, when given after surgery (called adjuvant chemotherapy), helps to kill these remaining cancer cells, reducing the risk of the cancer coming back (recurrence). Chemotherapy given before surgery (called neoadjuvant chemotherapy) can help shrink the tumor, making it easier to remove during surgery. For patients with advanced or metastatic colon cancer (cancer that has spread to other parts of the body), chemotherapy is often the main treatment.
- Targeted & Immunotherapy. Targetted therapy drugs specifically target cancer cells by interfering with specific molecules involved in tumor growth and progression. Immunotherapy works by boosting the body's immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells.
- Palliative care focuses on relieving symptoms and improving the quality of life for patients with advanced colon cancer. It includes pain management, psychological support, and assistance with managing side effects of treatment.
Treatment plans for colon cancer are individualized based on factors such as the stage of cancer, the location of the tumor, overall health, and personal preferences with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to their needs. Regular follow-up care is essential to monitor for any signs of recurrence and to manage any long-term effects of treatment.