Colorectal Cancer
Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is the third leading cancer killer among American men.
Risk Factors
Understanding the risk factors of colon cancer is crucial especially because many of them can be managed:
Family History
Family History Men with a family history of colon cancer are at a higher risk. If your father, brother, or any close male relative has been diagnosed with colon cancer,it ‘s essential to inform your healthcare provider.
Genetic Mutations
Age
While colon cancer can affect younger men, the risk increases significantly with age. In fact, the incidence of colorectal cancer increases 20 to 30 percent every five year age group after the age of 55. Regular screenings are a cornerstone to a healthy lifestyle as men get older.
Diet
Diets high in processed meat, low in fiber, and high in fat have been linked to an increased risk of colon cancer. Consider evaluating your diet and incorporating more whole foods, fruits, and vegetables.
Physical Activity
A lack of physical activity is associated with a higher risk of colon cancer. Regular exercise can help reduce your risk and improve overall health. Research shows that colon cancer patients who exercise regularly cut their chance of death from the disease by 30 percent.
Obesity
Men who are obese are 1.3 times more likely to get colon cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise is an important preventive measure.
The Importance of Screening
Colon cancer screening is a powerful tool in early detection and increasing survival rates. There are several types of screenings available, each with its own benefits:
When was your last colon cancer screening? If you’ve never had one, when do you plan to schedule it?
- Colonoscopy: This is the most comprehensive screening tool. A colonoscopy allows your doctor to view the entire colon and rectum and remove any polyps that could potentially turn into cancer. It’s recommended every 10 years for men over 50, or earlier if you have risk factors. After your first colonoscopy, your doctor may adjust the length of time between exams depending on the results. For example, finding benign polyps may lead to colonoscopies every five years.
- Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): This test checks for hidden blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of cancer. It’s less invasive than a colonoscopy and can be done annually.
- CT Colonography: Also known as a virtual colonoscopy, this test uses CT scanning to provide images of the colon and rectum. It’s less invasive but should be done every five years.
- Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: This test examines the lower part of the colon and is recommended every five years. It’s less comprehensive than a full colonoscopy but can still be effective in early detection.
Treatments for Colon Cancer
More treatments for colon cancer are in development all the time and the right treatment depends on the patient, progression of the cancer, and other health factors.
- Surgery: Surgery is often the first line of treatment for colon cancer. The goal is to remove the cancerous tumor and any affected surrounding tissue. In some cases, minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery may be an option.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses powerful drugs to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. It can be used before surgery (neoadjuvant) to make the tumor easier to remove, or after surgery (adjuvant) to kill any remaining cancer cells.
- Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells. It’s often used in conjunction with chemotherapy, particularly for rectal cancer.
- Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapies, such as ADC (antibody-drug conjugate) chemotherapies, pinpoint cancer cells while sparing healthy cells. This can lead to fewer side effects and improved survival rates.
Support and Resources
What Men Can Do About Colon Cancer
- Know Your Family History: Talk to your relatives about their health history. Sharing this information with your doctor can help determine your screening needs.
- Adopt a Healthier Lifestyle: Make dietary changes to include more whole foods and less processed meat. Start a regular exercise routine to maintain a healthy weight.
- Schedule a Colonoscopy: If you’re over 50 or have risk factors, don’t delay scheduling a colonoscopy or other screening tests. Early detection is key. The five-year colon cancer survival rate with early detection is 90 percent.
- Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest research and advancements in colon cancer treatment by signing up for the Men’s Health Network newsletter.
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