Colon Cancer
Approximately 1 in 20 people will receive a colorectal cancer diagnosis in their lifetime. As the leading provider of blood disorders and cancer services in the Grand Strand area, the expert team at Coastal Cancer Center proudly offers colon cancer care and infusion services at their four convenient locations in Myrtle Beach, Conway, Loris, and Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. Call the office today to schedule an appointment.
Colon Cancer Q & A
What is colon cancer?
Colon cancer develops in your large bowel or intestine. This part of your digestive system removes salt and water from the solid waste, or stools, your body produces.
The most common precursor to colon cancer is adenomatous polyps. These polyps are a type of abnormal growth in the colon or rectum that can become cancerous without removal.
In the early stages of colon cancer, there are usually no symptoms. This makes early detection crucial in preventing and treating colon cancer.
Who is at risk of developing colon cancer?
The risk of developing colon cancer is equal among women, men, and most races. However, African-Americans can have higher chances of developing this form of cancer and should generally begin having colon cancer screenings at an earlier age.
Additional factors that can increase your risk of colon cancer include:
- A family history of the disease
- Previous polyps
- Diets low in fiber and high in fat
- Being obese or having a sedentary lifestyle
- Hereditary gene mutations
Your chances of developing colon cancer are also higher if you have an inflammatory bowel disease such as ulcerative colitis.
How is colon cancer diagnosed?
The most effective method for diagnosing and preventing colon cancer is routine colonoscopy screening.
During a colonoscopy, your doctor inserts a colonoscope into your anus. This long, flexible tube has a tiny camera on the end. As the scope passes through your rectum and colon, your provider looks for irregularities or polyps.
They can also remove abnormal tissue during a colonoscopy for testing. Colon cancer responds very well to treatment when detected in its early stages.
How is colon cancer treated?
Your provider develops a strategy for treating your colon cancer based on the extent of your condition and your overall health. In most cases, colon cancer treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.
Surgeries to treat colon cancer range from minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques to traditional procedures to relieve blockages and manage your symptoms. Chemotherapy uses special drugs to destroy your cancer cells, and radiation therapy relies on powerful X-rays to kill or shrink tumors.
Coastal Cancer Center is the largest leading provider of cancer treatment in the Grand Strand area and conveniently offers comfortable infusion centers in each of its four friendly locations.
Call Coastal Cancer Center to schedule an appointment today.