Health matters

Colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer is the abnormal proliferation of cells in the large intestine (colon and rectum) and the appearance of a benign or malignant tumour in this area. Men are slightly more at risk for this disease than women. In Canada, 1 in 14 men is expected to develop colorectal cancer, a figure that stands at 1 in 16 among women.

Risk factors and symptoms

The causes of colorectal cancer have not yet been clearly identified. But the following risk factors have been associated with the disease: 

• Polyps (small growths) on the intestinal wall
• Age (this form of cancer affects mainly people 50 years and over)
• Inflammatory bowel disease (e. g. ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease)
• Family history of colon or rectal cancer
• Poor diet, alcohol consumption, smoking
• Physical inactivity
• Obesity

Nearly all cases of colorectal cancer (99 percent) begin as polyps on the intestinal wall. Although the majority of polyps are benign, they should be removed (through surgery or endoscopy, for instance) so that they do not eventually become cancerous.

In the early stages of development, which can last up to 10 years, colorectal cancer often does not exhibit any symptoms, since the abdomen has plenty of room for a tumour to grow. Eventually, it may cause bleeding or a blockage of the bowel. The following symptoms should be mentioned to a doctor, as they could be caused by colorectal cancer: blood in the stool, diarrhea, constipation or a feeling that the bowel does not empty completely, abdominal discomfort, unexplained weight loss, feeling of extreme exhaustion and vomiting.

Prevention

Colorectal cancer can be cured when it is discovered in its early stage. Prevention and regular checkups or screening when a case is suspect are, without a doubt, your best allies in the fight against this disease, especially if you are at risk.

Maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking and getting exercise can also reduce the risks of developing this type of cancer. A diet high in fruit, vegetables and fibre is also believed to help prevent colon cancer. 

To learn more on this subject, contact the Colorectal Cancer Association of Canada or the Canadian Cancer Society.