It is still unknown as to how Colorectal Cancer is caused, however some risk factors can include:
- Age, over 50 years of age
- Colorectal polyps
- Family that has a history of colorectal cancer.
- Previous cancer that involved colorectal cancer, and for women, cancer of the ovary, uterus, or breast.
- Have Ulcerative colitis or Crohn's Disease (Inflammation of the colon).
- Smoke tobacco or lack a healthy diet that is high in fat and low in fruits and vegetables.
- High intake of processed foods and red meat
These symptoms might include:
- Change in bowel habits (diarrhoea or constipation)
- Feeling nauseous or vomiting
- Feeling that your bowel does not empty thoroughly
- Feeling fatigue
- Detect blood either bright red or dark in your stool
- Stools are thinner than usual
- Frequently having gas pains or cramps, feeling full or bloated
- Weight loss
Other health issues can arise from these symptoms, consult your doctor if you suffer from any of the symptoms mentioned above.
Your doctor might suggest surgery to remove the tumour, these may include:
- Keyhole surgery
- Open surgery to remove the cancer and surrounding colon tissues and lymph nodes (glands)
Alternative treatments may include:
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy (high-energy X-Rays)
- Targeted therapy to stop the cancer growth
