Colorectal Cancer

For most people, a tummy ache is just that. A simple tummy ache. It's something we tend to take very casually. But, on occasion, a stomach ache can be indicative of a far more serious problem - digestive track complications, colitis and even cancer. Tackling these conditions at an early stage ensures you a better chance of survival. In cases involving colonic cancer and colitis, timely intervention can save the lives of 70-80% of patients. So, make it a point to visit your doctor regularly for check-ups. Colorectal cancer starts in the colon or the rectum. These cancers can also be named colon cancer or rectal cancer, depending on where they start.

SYMPTOMS OF COLORECTAL CANCER

• Persistent constipation or diarrhea
• An urgency to move the bowels
• Rectal cramping, or rectal bleeding
• Dark patches of blood in or on stool; or long, thin, "pencil stools"
• Abdominal discomfort or bloating
• Unexplained fatigue, loss of appetite, and/or weight loss
• Pelvic pain, which occurs at later stages of the disease

RISK FACTORS

• Older age (after 50)
• Inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn's disease, or ulcerative colitis
• A personal or family history of colorectal cancer or colorectal polyps
• Lack of regular physical activity
• Low fruit and vegetable intake
• A low-fibre and high-fat diet
• Overweight and obesity
• Alcohol consumption
• Tobacco use

TYPES OF COLORECTAL CANCER

• Stage I: Cancer has grown through the mucosa and has invaded the muscular layer of the colon or rectum.
• Stage II: Cancer has grown through the wall of the colon or rectum
• Stage III: Cancer has grown through the inner lining or into the muscle layers of the intestine and spread to one to three lymph nodes
• Stage IV: Cancer has spread to a different organs like lungs, bones, liver, lymph nodes, brain or spinal cord.

LAPAROSCOPIC SURGERY FOR COLONIC & RECTAL CANCER

Should you observe any of the following symptoms, please refer to a specialist immediately.

ADVANTAGES OF A MINIMALLY INVASIVE APPROACH:

• Bleeding from the rectum in patients above age 40
• Altered bowel habits (> 6 weeks)
• Weight loss or family history of cancer
• Concealed Cosmetic Scar
• Minimal Pain
• Faster Recovery and Minimal Post-op Adhesions
• Minimal Blood Loss as Compared to Normal Surgery