Understanding Colon and Rectum Cancer- Dr. Sachin Arora

1. Understanding Colon and Rectum Cancer – Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Expert Care Colon and rectum cancer, together referred to as colorectal cancer, arises from the inner lining of the large intestine or rectum. It is one of the most prevalent forms of cancer worldwide, yet highly preventable and treatable when detected early. Colorectal cancer generally begins as small, benign clumps of cells called polyps. Over time, these polyps can become cancerous. Routine screening is key to identifying and removing these polyps before they develop into cancer. Anatomy: What Are the Colon Anatomy: What Are the Colon and Rectum? and Rectum? Colon (Large Intestine): The final part • of the digestive tract where water is absorbed and waste is stored. • Rectum: The lower part of the colon where stool is stored before being excreted from the body. Common Symptoms of Colon and Rectum Cancer Many people with colon or rectal cancer experience no symptoms in the early stages. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include: 1.Changes in Bowel Habits Persistent diarrhea or constipation Narrow or thin stools • • 2. Blood in Stool •Maroon-colored or black stools indicate internal bleeding •Bright red blood may be seen in rectal cancer 3. Abdominal Discomfort •Cramping, bloating, or frequent gas pain •Unexplained abdominal fullness 4. Unexplained Weight Loss •Sudden weight loss without dietary or lifestyle changes 5. Weakness or Fatigue •Caused by anemia (low red blood cells) due to chronic blood loss

2. Who Is at Risk? Who Is at Risk? •Age 50 or older •Family history of colorectal cancer or polyps •Diet high in red or processed meats •Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)such as Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis •Sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking, and heavy alcohol use Diagnosis and Tests Diagnosis and Tests Early diagnosis is crucial for successful treatment. A combination of the following tests may be used: •Colonoscopy– Gold standard for detecting polyps and tumors •Fecal occult blood test (FOBT)– Detects hidden blood in stool •CT Colonography– A virtual colonoscopy •Biopsy– To confirm cancer from tissue samples •Blood Tests– To assess liver function and tumor markers like CEA Stages of Colorectal Cancer Stages of Colorectal Cancer 1.Stage 0: Cancer is in the innermost layer only (in situ) 2.Stage I-II: Cancer has spread through the colon walls but not to lymph nodes 3.Stage III: Cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes 4.Stage IV: Cancer has spread to distant organs (e.g., liver or lungs) Treatment Options Treatment Options Treatment depends on the stage, location, and overall health of the patient. Options include: 1. Surgery •Polypectomy: Removal of polyps during colonoscopy •Colectomy: Removal of part or all of the colon •Laparoscopic Surgery: Minimally invasive surgery by expert surgeons like Dr. Sachin Arora 2. Chemotherapy •Used in advanced stages or after surgery to kill remaining cancer cells 3. Radiation Therapy •More commonly used in rectal cancer 4. Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy •In select advanced cases based on genetic makeup

3. Why Early Diagnosis Matters Why Early Diagnosis Matters Early detection can save lives. Symptoms like changes in bowel movements, blood in stool, or unexplained fatigue should prompt immediate consultation with a specialist. Early-stage colorectal cancer is more likely to be treated successfully with surgery, chemotherapy, or minimally invasive techniques. Why Choose Dr. Sachin Arora? Why Choose Dr. Sachin Arora? Dr. Sachin Arora is a highly skilled Surgical Gastroenterologist with advanced training in GI and cancer surgeries from the prestigious SGPGI, Lucknow. His expertise lies in: •Minimally invasive laparoscopic procedures •HPB (liver, pancreas, bile duct) surgeries •Gastrointestinal cancer surgeries •Holistic and personalized cancer treatment When to See a Specialist? When to See a Specialist? You should consult a gastroenterologist or cancer specialist immediately if you experience: •Blood in stools •Prolonged constipation or diarrhea •Unexplained abdominal pain •Sudden weight loss •Family history of colorectal cancer Clinic Locations Digestive Surgery Clinic - Dr. Sachin Arora Sanjay Medicos, Sector 2, Maharani Bagh Ln, Ballupur Chowk, Ashirwad Enclave, Mohit Nagar, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248001 Contact: +917505209117 Website: https://drsachinarora.in/