5 Essential Steps You Can Take to Survive Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is among the most common types of cancer diagnosed in men and women worldwide. Most young people mistakenly believe they are not at risk as it’s often considered that it only affects the elderly. However, this disease can occur at any age, and thus, awareness is necessary. 

A survey by the National Cancer Registry Program (NCRP) under India’s National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research (NCDIR), it was found that the annual incident rate (AAR) of colorectal cancer among Indian men is 5.36 per 1 Lakh. On the other hand, the AAR among Indian women was found to be 4.3 per 1 Lakh, which is significantly lower than the rates in developed nations. Even though the occurrence is lower, the consequences can be fatal. So, early diagnosis and treatment are essential for surviving it.

What Exactly is Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer begins as a small growth, known as a polyp, within the colon or rectum area of the digestive system. Over time, these polyps can turn cancerous. You might notice changes in your bowel habits, such as stomach pain, sudden weight loss, fatigue, and bloody stools.

What are the Causes and Risk Factors of Colorectal Cancer

While the exact cause of colorectal cancer is unclear, several factors may contribute to its occurrence. 

• Genetic conditions
  
• Environmental causes
• Development of polyps in the colon that turn into colon cancer

Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer to Watch Out

Some people with colorectal cancer don’t experience symptoms. However, some common symptoms include: 

• Bloody stool
  
• Stomach pain or cramps
• Weakness
• Signs of anemia (reduced red blood cells)

Screening Colorectal Cancer

Screening methods are used for detecting the presence of polyps in the colon. Doctors perform the following common tests to screen for colorectal cancer:

• Colonoscopy 
• Stool DNA test 
• Manual rectal examination by a doctor
• Blood stool test
• Stool immunochemistry
• CT colonography
• Imaging tests- CT, MRI, and Ultrasound
• Barium enema x-ray
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy

Colorectal Cancer Treatments

Colorectal cancer treatments usually involve surgery followed by chemotherapy and radiation therapy lasting for 3-6 months. However, colorectal cancer treatments depend on the stage of cancer and the grade of the tumor. Some people may need neoadjuvant immunotherapy, especially if the cancer has spread to nearby organs.

5 Essential Steps to Surviving Colorectal Cancer

While treatment is the key to surviving colorectal cancer, following a few steps can improve your life expectancy. Here are five essential steps to surviving colorectal cancer.

1. Survivorship Care Plan (SCP)
   After colorectal cancer treatment, patients should have a detailed plan for further care. This comprehensive plan is known as the Survivorship Care Plan. It involves reviewing their overall health status and any other relevant physical or medical assessment recommended by healthcare experts. The patients should talk to their doctors and develop an action plan to live a fulfilling life after cancer treatment.
   
   
2. Post-treatment Monitoring
   After undergoing colorectal cancer treatment, regular follow-up visits are important to monitor your status and address any problems like cancer recurrence. Once there are no more signs of cancer, your doctor may recommend tests like colonoscopy, proctoscopy and imaging tests like CT scan or MRI, at long intervals.
   
   
3. Long-term Side-Effect Management
   Certain chemotherapy drugs or radiation may cause lasting effects on the body’s ability to digest food and energy levels. Take these steps to alleviate these side effects.
   
   1. Incorporate a regular exercise routine into your daily life to help reduce fatigue and boost energy levels.
   2. Discuss any new side effects with your doctor to prevent delays in the treatment.
   
   
4. Tracking Personal Health
   You can use electronic health record apps or journals to document symptoms, medications and alterations in your condition. This includes past treatments, current and previous medications, and healthcare appointments. Such information is important for your healthcare providers as it helps plan further treatment if required.
   
   
5. Opting For Palliative Care
   Patients with serious illnesses, including colorectal cancer, may need specialized healthcare known as palliative care. It focuses on managing symptoms and relieving pain. With the help of a team of doctors, caregivers, and specially trained individuals, you can manage your illness better and improve your quality of life.

Conclusion

This blog highlighted many aspects of colorectal cancer; however, it is important to remember that every step you take towards early detection, treatment, and healthy lifestyle brings you closer to hope and empowers you in the war against colorectal cancer.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can practicing mindfulness or meditation reduce the risk of colorectal cancer?
   
   Answer:- Mindfulness and meditation help with general health, but their role in lowering the risk of colorectal cancer needs more research. 
   
   
2. How does personalized genetic testing play a role in colorectal cancer prevention strategies?
   
   Answer:- Personalized genetic tests can reveal if people have genes that make them prone to colorectal cancer, enabling them to take steps to prevent it.