Learn everything about colorectal cancer

 

Every year in March, the United States celebrates Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month with the aim of increasing public awareness about this disease and its prevention. This initiative was created in 2000 by the Colorectal Cancer Alliance (formerly known as the National Colorectal Cancer Alliance) and other health organizations.

The reason why it is celebrated in March is to coincide with the arrival of spring, which is a time of renewal and hope. Additionally, March also marks the beginning of the long-distance racing season, such as marathons and half-marathons, which are often used to raise funds and awareness about this type of cancer.

Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that forms in the colon or rectum, which are parts of the digestive system. Normal cells in these areas of the body can mutate and begin to grow abnormally, forming tumors that can be benign or malignant. If the tumor is malignant, it is called colorectal cancer.

This cancer is more common in people over 50 years old, although it can also affect younger people. Risk factors include a family history of colorectal cancer, certain hereditary disorders, a low-fiber and high-fat diet, and a sedentary lifestyle.

Symptoms of colorectal cancer can vary but may include changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and weakness. However, some people may not experience any symptoms in the early stages of cancer.

Regarding diagnosis, it is done through screening tests such as colonoscopy, which uses a tube with a camera to examine the inside of the colon and rectum for tumors and polyps. Blood, fecal, computed tomography, and radiography tests can also be performed.

As for treatment, it depends on various factors, such as the location and size of the tumor, the extent of the disease, and the patient's overall health. Treatment options may include surgery to remove the tumor, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. However, in some cases, targeted therapies and immunotherapies may be used.

It is important to note that early detection of colorectal cancer increases the chances of a cure and survival. Therefore, it is recommended that people over 50 years old undergo regular screening tests, even if they do not have symptoms. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet and an active lifestyle can help prevent colorectal cancer.

In the United States, there are many centers and institutions specializing in the treatment of colorectal cancer. Below are some of the most recognized centers:

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center is one of the largest and most respected cancer treatment centers in the world. Its team of experts in colorectal cancer provides advanced diagnosis and treatment, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy.

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Located in Boston, Massachusetts, is one of the leading cancer treatment and research centers in the country. It offers advanced diagnostic and treatment services for patients with colorectal cancer.

Mayo Clinic, based in Rochester, Minnesota, is a world-renowned medical center that provides diagnostic and treatment services for patients with colorectal cancer at several locations in the United States.

Cleveland Clinic is a renowned medical center that offers a wide range of treatment services for patients with colorectal cancer, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy.

MD Anderson Cancer Center is one of the top cancer treatment and research centers in the United States. Its team of experts in colorectal cancer offers a wide range of advanced treatment services.

Johns Hopkins Medicine is a leading medical center in Baltimore, Maryland, that offers a wide range of diagnostic and treatment services for patients with colorectal cancer, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Similarly, we highlight these specialist doctors who, with their experience and achievements in the field, are highly recognized in the country:

Dr. Leonard Saltz is one of the top medical oncologists in the treatment of colorectal cancer in the United States, and has worked on some of the most important studies on the subject. He is known for his expertise in developing innovative therapies for patients with advanced colorectal cancer.

Dr. David Dietz is the most respected colorectal cancer surgeon in the United States. He has performed thousands of colorectal surgeries and is known for his innovative and minimally invasive approach to colorectal cancer surgery.

Dr. John Marshall is a recognized expert in colorectal cancer. He has led important clinical trials to develop new therapies for the treatment of colorectal cancer.

Dr. Deborah Schrag is a renowned medical oncologist and leader in colorectal cancer research. She is known for her work in cancer care quality and her role in developing national cancer treatment guidelines.

Dr. Stanley Hamilton is an expert pathologist in colorectal cancer and has conducted important research in the diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer. He is known for his work in molecular analysis of colorectal cancer and the identification of new therapeutic targets.

To conclude, we want to emphasize that colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States, but it is also one of the most preventable and curable if detected early. Awareness of risk factors and the importance of screening tests can help prevent the disease and save lives. Therefore, if you suffer from colorectal cancer, it is important to:

Maintain a positive attitude: It can be difficult, but it is important to try to maintain a positive perspective and focus on the positive things in life.

Accept support from others: Colorectal cancer can be an overwhelming disease, but accepting emotional and practical support from friends and family can make a big difference.

Participate in support groups: Joining a support group of people going through the same thing can provide a valuable source of emotional support and sharing experiences and advice.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Including a balanced diet and regular exercise can help reduce the risk of recurrence and improve overall health.

Communicate openly with the medical team: Asking questions and understanding the treatment plan can help alleviate anxiety and improve treatment outcomes.

Follow the treatment plan recommended by the medical team: It is essential to achieve the best possible results.

Have regular screening tests: They can help detect any signs of colorectal cancer at an early stage, which increases the chances of successful treatment.

Remember that each person and situation is unique, so it is important to work with your medical team to develop a personalized treatment plan and find the emotional and practical support that best suits your needs.

References:

¿Qué es el cáncer colorrectal? American Cancer Society. (n.d.). Retrieved March 6, 2023, from https://www.cancer.org/es/cancer/cancer-de-colon-o-recto/acerca/que-es-cancer-de-colon-o-recto.html 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). ¿Qué es el cáncer colorrectal? Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved March 6, 2023, from https://www.cdc.gov/spanish/cancer/colorectal/basic_info/what-is-colorectal-cancer.htm 

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2022, October 8). Cáncer de Colon. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved March 13, 2023, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/es-es/diseases-conditions/colon-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20353669 

Commissioner, O. of the. (n.d.). Cáncer colorrectal: Lo que debe saber sobre las pruebas de detección. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved March 13, 2023, from https://www.fda.gov/consumers/articulos-para-el-consumidor-en-espanol/cancer-colorrectal-lo-que-debe-saber-sobre-las-pruebas-de-deteccion 

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center - https://www.mskcc.org/

Mayo Clinic - https://www.mayoclinic.org

Cleveland Clinic - https://my.clevelandclinic.org

MD Anderson Cancer Center - https://www.mdanderson.org/

Johns Hopkins Medicine - https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/

Dr. Leonard Saltz - https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/doctors/leonard-saltz

Dr. David Dietz - https://www.uhhospitals.org/doctors/Dietz-David-1578581039

Dr. John Marshall - https://www.medstarhealth.org/doctors/john-lindsay-marshall-md

Dra. Deborah Schrag - https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/doctors/deb-schrag

Dr. Stanley Hamilton - https://www.cityofhope.org/stanley-hamilton