Colorectal Cancer Tests and Diagnosis

Types of colorectal cancer Adenocarcinomas are the most common type of colorectal cancer. More than 90% of colorectal cancers are adenocarcinomas. These cancers arise from the cells of mucus secreting glands of the colon and rectum. Other less common tumours are gastrointestinal stromal tumour, gastrointestinal carcinoid tumour, primary colorectal lymphoma and sarcoma. Stages of colorectal cancer By knowing the stage of the cancer, the doctor can make a decision on the treatment and can predict…

Complete blood count for iron deficiency anaemia due to bleeding Digital rectal examination: The doctor inserts a lubricated gloved finger into the rectum to feel for any lump or other abnormality. Fecal occult blood tests for hidden blood in the stool from bleeding blood vessels. Double contrast barium enema (DCBA): This detects abnormalities in the colon and rectum. A liquid containing barium is put into the rectum after which the colon and rectum are X-rayed. Air is put into the rectum…

Fatigue and weakness Change in bowel habit such as diarrhoea, constipation or narrowing of stool lasting more than 4 weeks Bright red or dark blood in stool A feeling of not being able to empty the bowel completely Unexplained weight loss Persistent abdominal pain, discomfort, gas, bloating etc. Anaemia

Are you at risk of developing colorectal cancer? You are if you Are over 50 years of age Have a diet high in saturated fat, animal protein, red meat, processed meats like hotdogs, meats cooked over high temperatures and low in dietary fibre Have a history of polyps Have a family history of colorectal cancer or adenomatous polyp Have a family history of hereditary syndromes such as Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), Hereditary non polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC), Gardner syndrome, Lynch…

Choo Mei Sze from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia surprised doctors with her condition and then even more with her fighting spirit. The TV host/columnist/blogger/emcee shares her tips for coming back stronger than ever.  Please tell us a bit about your condition. I had stage 1b/2 colon cancer. The tumour was 1/3 the size of my colon and I had to remove 2/3 of my rectum and 12 cm of my colon, total of 18 lymph nodes. I had complications during the surgery as I had low blood…

By nutritionist Kohila Govindaraju Being overweight has been linked with the increased risk of breast cancer, endometrial (uterus), and colorectal cancer. So keep your BMI at 25 or less with these foods that reduce your waist and your cancer risk: Fruits, vegetables, wholegrains and pulses are rich in vitamins and minerals, boosting your immune system. Go for dark coloured beans (rajma, brown beans, green beans, black-eyed beans) and brightly coloured vegetables and…

Colorectal cancer is a cancer that develops from uncontrolled cell division of the inner lining of the large intestine (colon and rectum). Globally, colorectal cancer is the 3rd most common cancer in men and 2nd most common cancer in women. Colorectal cancer is more common in developed nations such as the United States and less common in developing nations. However, incidences of colorectal cancer are increasing in Asian countries due to change in dietary habits and lifestyle. Most cases…