Colorectal cancer
Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the colon or rectum. It is one of the most common forms of cancer and can be successfully treated if detected early. Understanding risk factors, symptoms, and screening is crucial to reducing the risk of complications.
Colorectal cancer overview
Colorectal cancer typically develops slowly from non-cancerous conditions such as polyps. If these polyps are not detected and removed in time, they can develop into cancer.
Symptoms of colorectal cancer
Symptoms of colorectal cancer can be subtle in the early stages and include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, abdominal pain or cramps, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. Diagnosis is usually made through a combination of physical examination, colonoscopy, biopsy, and other imaging tests.
Risk factors
Risk factors for colorectal cancer include age (risk increases after the age of 50), heredity (family history of colorectal cancer or hereditary genetic diseases), inflammatory bowel disease (such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease), obesity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption.
Prevention
Preventing colorectal cancer involves making lifestyle choices such as eating a high-fiber diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, limiting alcohol consumption, and avoiding smoking. Regular screening tests such as colonoscopy are also important for early detection and treatment.
Treatment of colorectal cancer
Treatment of colorectal cancer depends on the stage and extent of the disease. Common treatment options include surgery to remove the tumor, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted drug therapy. The treatment plan is individually tailored for each patient based on their specific situation and needs.
Support and Follow-up
Living with colorectal cancer can be a challenging experience both physically and emotionally. Support from family, friends, and the healthcare team is important for managing the disease and its treatment. Regular follow-up visits with a gastroenterologist or oncologist are also necessary to monitor the progress of the disease and adjust treatment as needed.
Newly Diagnosed with Colorectal Cancer: What You Need To Know
Getting diagnosed with colorectal cancer can be scary, but there are resources and support available to help you manage the disease. Take time to understand your diagnosis, create a management plan, and seek support from loved ones and organizations like Lycenna for additional guidance.
Lycenna can help reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer through early detection and preventive measures. We offer tailored health screenings, including colonoscopy and other screening tests, to identify any changes or polyps in the colon that may be precursors to cancer. Our medical team works with you to develop a personalized prevention plan that may include lifestyle changes, dietary advice, and regular screening to reduce your risk.
Lycenna can help you if you have colorectal cancer by providing tailored medical expertise and support throughout your treatment journey. We carefully review your medical history and ensure that your treatment is in line with the latest research and guidelines for colorectal cancer treatment. Our team of doctors is available around the clock to answer your questions, provide ongoing monitoring and support, and coordinate second opinions and any necessary treatment abroad if needed. We can accompany you to important healthcare visits to ensure that you get answers to all your questions and that the care you receive aligns with the recommendations we have developed together with international experts. We also review whether there is an opportunity for you to participate in clinical trials on new treatment methods if alternatives are exhausted.
Lycenna can continue to be a valuable resource for you even after you have had colorectal cancer. We offer long-term follow-up and support to monitor your recovery, prevent recurrence, and manage any side effects or long-term complications of treatment. Our team can help you develop an individualized recovery plan that may include regular check-ups, support for mental and emotional health, and any necessary continued treatment or rehabilitation. We are here to support you throughout your journey to health and well-being after colorectal cancer.
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