What is colon cancer?
Colon cancer is any cancer that occurs in the large intestine, the last organ in the digestive system. Most forms of colon cancer begin as benign lumps called adenomatous polyps that turn into cancerous tumors over time.
Since these polyps often produce no symptoms until the cancer has advanced, it’s important to get regular screening tests to identify and remove polyps.
What are the symptoms of colon cancer?
If you have colon cancer, you’ll likely notice
- A drastic or long-lasting change in bowel habits, including constipation or diarrhea
- Bleeding from your anus, or blood in your stool
- Persistent discomfort in the abdomen, like cramps, gas, or a stomachache
- Unexplained weight loss
- Feeling dizzy, weak, or fatigued
Symptoms can vary depending on how advanced the cancer is, and on its position in the colon.
Who is most at risk of developing colon cancer?
While colon cancer could affect anyone, you're at a higher risk if you:
- Are over age 50
- Are African-American
- Have a history of colorectal polyps
- Have inflammatory intestinal conditions
- Have a family history of colon cancer
- Follow a low-fiber, high-fat diet
- Are obese or have diabetes
- Lead a sedentary lifestyle, smoke or drink to excess
- Have previously had radiation therapy for cancer
Age appears to be the greatest determinative factor in colon cancer, as almost all cases occur in people over 50. If you fall into one or more of these groups, you should learn more about getting screened for colon cancer today.
How do you treat colon cancer?
Colon cancer is usually identified by performing a colonoscopy and a series of blood tests to locate and stage the cancer. Once this is done, surgery is often recommended to remove the tumor from the colon.
Dr. Yavrouian is a leading provider of minimally invasive surgeries used for the treatment of colon cancer. In addition to the laparoscopic colectomy or colon resection that is often used to remove cancerous tissue, he can offer patients a robotic colectomy as well.
In this state-of-the-art procedure, Dr. Yavrouian uses a computer terminal to control tiny robotic arms to assist in the surgery. This increased precision ensures you have the least invasive, most effective treatment possible.
If you’ve been diagnosed with colon cancer, or if you have any questions, call Dr. Robert Yavrouian today or make an appointment online.
