Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a type of cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. It is the third leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States, and it is estimated that there will be over 150,000 new cases of CRC diagnosed in the US in 2023. CRC is most often found in people over the age of 50, but it can occur in younger people as well.

Causes of Colorectal Cancer

The exact cause of CRC is unknown, but there are a number of risk factors that can increase the chances of developing the disease. These risk factors include:

• Age: The risk of CRC increases with age.
• Family history: People who have a family history of CRC are at an increased risk of developing the disease.
• Personal history of CRC or adenomatous polyps: People who have had CRC or adenomatous polyps in the past are at an increased risk of developing CRC again.
• Ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease: People who have ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease are at an increased risk of developing CRC.
• Diet: A diet high in red meat, processed meat, and saturated fat may increase the risk of CRC.
• Obesity: Obesity is a risk factor for CRC.
• Smoking: Smoking cigarettes increases the risk of CRC.
• Alcohol consumption: Heavy alcohol consumption may increase the risk of CRC.
• Physical inactivity: Physical inactivity is a risk factor for CRC.

Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer

The symptoms of CRC can vary depending on the location of the tumor. Some common symptoms of CRC include:

• Rectal bleeding
• Blood in the stool
• Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool
• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Weakness

Diagnosis of Colorectal Cancer

CRC is diagnosed through a variety of tests, including:

• Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy is a procedure in which a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end is inserted into the rectum and colon to look for polyps or tumors.
• Sigmoidoscopy: A sigmoidoscopy is a procedure in which a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end is inserted into the rectum and sigmoid colon to look for polyps or tumors.
• Barium enema: A barium enema is a procedure in which a liquid containing barium is inserted into the rectum and colon to coat the lining of the colon so that it can be seen on an X-ray.
• Virtual colonoscopy: A virtual colonoscopy is a CT scan of the colon that can be used to look for polyps or tumors.

Treatment of Colorectal Cancer

The treatment of CRC depends on the stage of the cancer and the patient's overall health. Treatment options may include:

• Surgery: Surgery is the most common treatment for CRC. The type of surgery will depend on the location and stage of the cancer.
• Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells.
• Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy uses drugs that target specific molecules that are involved in the growth of cancer cells.
• Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy uses the patient's own immune system to fight cancer.

Prevention of Colorectal Cancer

There are a number of things you can do to reduce your risk of developing CRC, including:

• Getting regular screening tests, such as colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy.
• Eating a healthy diet, including plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Maintaining a healthy weight.
• Getting regular exercise.
• Avoiding tobacco smoke.
• Limiting alcohol consumption.

Online Courses

There are many online courses that can help you learn more about CRC. These courses can provide you with information on the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of CRC. Some of the most popular online courses on CRC include:

• Lifestyle Medicine Treatments of Chronic Disease – Part 2
• Global Disease Masterclass: Non-communicable Diseases
• Molecular Tumor Board 2021-22
• Molecular Tumor Board 2023-2024

These courses can be a great way to learn more about CRC and to improve your health.