Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a type of disease that
starts in the large intestine or rectum. The colon is a part of the digestive
system, which plays an essential role in the digestion and transportation
of our food. Colon cancer usually affects men and women over the age of
50, but it can arise in younger individuals as well. It typically begins
as a small, noncancerous cluster of cells (polyps) within the colon. Over
time, these polyps can develop into colon cancer. Calaway•Young Cancer
Center in Glenwood Springs, CO offers a variety of treatments for men
and women who are fighting colon cancer. Call our office today to schedule
a private consultation with one of our seasoned oncologists.
Types of Colon Cancer
The various types of colon cancer include:
Adenocarcinomas (most common)
Carcinoid tumors
Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs)
Lymphomas
Sarcomas
Causes
We aren’t certain of the cause of colon cancer, however, we do know
it starts as a benign growth on the inner lining of the colon or rectum.
In general, abnormal growths or tumors develop when healthy cells begin
to mutate and grow. These cancerous cells can also spread (metastasis)
to other areas of the body. Factors that may increase one’s risks
of developing colon cancer can include old age, race, inflammatory intestinal
diseases, having a low fiber/high-fat diet, inherited syndromes, and having
a family history of colon cancer.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of colon cancer include:
A change in bowel movements, such as diarrhea, constipation, or consistency
of the stool
The feeling of not being able to completely relieve oneself
Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
Constant discomfort in the abdominal area, such as cramps, gas, or pain
Unexpected weight loss
Weakness or fatigue
Treatment Options
Our cancer team practices a multidisciplinary approach and collaborates
with other health care professionals at Valley View Hospital, such as
gastroenterologists, colon and rectal surgeons, pathologists, and radiologists
to treat colon cancer. Together, we come up with the best treatment plan
for our patients, which may include radiation, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy.
We also offer other services, such as cancer counseling, to help patients
and their families through this difficult time.
Leading Cancer Care
At Calaway•Young Cancer Center, our board-certified cancer team works
effortlessly to provide men and women with the best cancer care possible.
We also utilize a multi-institutional approach of medical research to
provide the latest and most effective treatment forms. Our Calaway•Young
Cancer Center is committed to helping the community of Valley View in
any way we can to help them overcome colon cancer.
