Colorectal Cancer

  • Colorectal Cancer
    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 4th most common cancer in women. However, incidences of colorectal cancer are increasing in Asian countries due to change in dietary habits and lifestyle. 
Submitted by Content Loader on 1 June 2014

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 of colorectal cancer begin as small non-cancerous cluster of cells called adenomatous polyp. Over time, these polyps become malignant and cause colorectal cancer. Colon cancers are more common on the left side of the large intestine. If diagnosed early, it can be cured, so regular screening (from the age of 50 if you have no risk factors) is important.

Anatomy of the large intestine

The large intestine is a part of the gastrointestinal tract (digestive system). It includes the cecum, colon (ascending, transverse, descending and sigmoid), rectum and the anal canal. The large intestine is a tube-like structure that looks like a garden hose. It has four layers. The first layer of cells that line the cavity of the tube is called mucosa. The second layer is called submucosa and the next is a layer of muscles. The entire tube is surrounded by fibrous tissue called serosa. 

Most of the digestion and absorption of food happens in the small intestine. The function of the large intestine is to absorb water from the remaining indigestible food matter, absorb vitamins such as vitamin K, B12, riboflavin, provide a location for flora-aided fermentation and pass useless waste material out of the body through the anus.

 

Community
Cancer
Condition
Colorectal Cancer

Stories

  • Types and Stages of Colorectal Cancer
    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…
  • Colorectal Cancer Tests and Diagnosis
    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…
  • Colorectal Cancer Symptoms and Signs
    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
  • Colorectal Cancer Causes and Risks
    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…
  • Colon cancer at 27 did not stop her aiming for 5Km
    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…
  • Foods that fight cancer
    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
    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…

Latest Stories

Booklet