don’t sit on it. get screened.
When it comes to colorectal cancer, it’s like a two-headed beast: starting in either the colon or rectum. You might hear it called colon cancer or rectal cancer, depending on its launch pad. These two cancer cousins are often talked about together since they share plenty of similarities.
understanding the colon and rectum
To understand colorectal cancer, it’s essential to understand the standard structure and function of the colon and rectum. The colon and rectum are integral parts of the digestive system, which is also referred to as the gastrointestinal (GI) system. The colon is a muscular tube that is approximately 5 feet long and comprises the majority of the large intestine. The colon’s parts are named based on the food’s direction of travel through them.
The first section is called the ascending colon. It starts with a pouch called the cecum, where undigested food comes in from the small intestine. It continues upward on the right side of the abdomen (belly).
The second section is called the transverse colon. It goes across the body from the right to the left side.
The third section is called the descending colon because it descends (travels down) on the left side.
The fourth section is called the sigmoid colon because of its “S” shape. The sigmoid colon joins the rectum, which then connects to the anus.
The ascending and transverse sections together are called the proximal colon. The descending and sigmoid colon are called the distal colon.
the difference between rectal and colon cancer
Though the colon and rectum are both parts of the large intestine, they serve distinct functions. The colon absorbs water from stool, while the rectum stores it until it’s time for a bowel movement. Together, the rectum and anal canal make up the last 6 to 8 inches of the digestive tract.
The difference between colon and rectal cancer lies in location: Colon cancer begins in the lining of the colon. Rectal cancer starts in the tissue of the rectum.
Both types fall under the broader category of colorectal cancer but may require different treatment approaches due to anatomical and functional differences.
symptoms
Colorectal cancer may not display symptoms right away, however, if it does, you may experience one or more of the following:
- A change in bowel habits such as diarrhea, constipation, or stool narrowing that lasts for more than a few days
- A feeling that you need to have a bowel movement that is not relieved by having one bright red blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
- Dark brown or black stool due to blood in the stool
- Cramping or abdominal (belly) pain
- Weakness and fatigue
- Unintended weight loss
Colorectal cancer may cause bleeding in the digestive tract that is not visible in the stool, leading to low red blood cell counts (anemia) over time. A low red blood cell count may be the first indication of colorectal cancer, discovered through a blood test. In some cases, colorectal cancer may spread to the liver or lungs, resulting in symptoms such as a large liver felt during an exam, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes), or difficulty breathing.
While some of these symptoms may be caused by other conditions such as infection, hemorrhoids, or irritable bowel syndrome, it is still important to see a doctor immediately if you are experiencing any of these problems. This will ensure that the underlying cause can be identified and treated.
risk factors
While colorectal cancer can affect anyone, certain factors may increase the likelihood of developing the disease, including:
- Chronic bowel inflammation such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease
- Personal or family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
- Genetic syndromes such as Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
- Individuals of Black/African American and Ashkenazi Jewish descent face a higher risk.
