Free cancer support
Colon Cancer
Colorectal cancer (CRC) refers to malignant tumors originating in the colon or rectum and is one of the most common cancers worldwide. Its incidence increases with age and often arises from benign intestinal polyps that gradually transform into malignancy through the accumulation of genetic mutations over time. Major risk factors include:
• Genetic factors – individuals with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or Lynch syndrome (HNPCC) have an increased risk.
• Dietary and lifestyle factors – high-fat, low-fiber diets, smoking, alcohol consumption, and physical inactivity.
• Chronic intestinal inflammation – such as in patients with ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease.
• Age and sex – individuals over 50 years old, with slightly higher incidence in males.
Early screening, intestinal health management, and personalized nursing interventions are essential for slowing disease progression, reducing complications, and improving quality of life.
Early colorectal cancer (CRC) often presents with minimal or non-specific symptoms. As the tumor enlarges or causes bowel obstruction, the following may occur:
• Changes in bowel habits – diarrhea, constipation, or alternating patterns, often accompanied by a sensation of incomplete evacuation.
• Hematochezia or melena – the color and appearance of blood may indicate tumor location.
• Abdominal discomfort – including bloating, pain, intermittent cramping, or abnormal bowel motility.
• Anemia and fatigue – chronic blood loss may lead to iron-deficiency anemia, presenting as pallor and generalized fatigue.
• Weight loss – due to decreased appetite or malabsorption of nutrients.
• Advanced symptoms – bowel obstruction caused by tumor growth; liver or lung metastases may result in jaundice or respiratory difficulties.
Regular screening and early detection of polyps or suspicious lesions are critical for timely diagnosis and intervention.
Diagnostic approaches for colorectal cancer (CRC) are diverse, aiming for early detection, subtype classification, and development of personalized care plans:
• Clinical examination – Physicians can preliminarily assess tumor location and size through palpation, digital rectal examination, and medical history evaluation.
• Endoscopic examination – Colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy allows direct visualization of lesions within the bowel and enables biopsy for pathological analysis.
• Imaging studies
– CT/MRI: evaluate tumor infiltration, lymph node involvement, and organ metastasis.
– Ultrasound and PET-CT: assist in detecting liver lesions and distant metastases.
• Laboratory tests – Tumor markers such as CEA and CA19-9 support diagnosis, monitor treatment response, and assess recurrence risk.
• Molecular and genetic testing – Assessment of MSI, KRAS, NRAS, BRAF, and other molecular markers can guide personalized care plans and targeted therapy strategies.
Care and supportive strategies for colorectal cancer (CRC) can be divided into traditional methods and personalized supportive strategies, aiming to slow disease progression, improve bowel function, and enhance quality of life:
• Surgery
– Radical resection is the primary treatment, with the extent of resection and bowel reconstruction determined by tumor location.
– Postoperative care – including bowel management, nutritional support, and rehabilitation training – aids functional recovery and reduces complications.
• Radiation and Chemotherapy Care
– Radiation therapy is mainly used preoperatively for rectal cancer to shrink tumors or postoperatively for local control.
– Chemotherapy is indicated for advanced disease or high-risk recurrence, combined with bowel care and nutritional support to minimize side effects and maintain quality of life.
• Targeted and Immune Support
– Personalized care plans are developed based on molecular testing, targeting pathways such as EGFR and VEGF.
– Combined with immune-enhancing therapies, bowel-focused nutritional support, and psychological counseling, these strategies improve immunity and overall health.
• Nutritional and Supportive Therapies
– Intravenous supplementation with high-dose vitamin C, glutathione, amino acids, and trace elements may improve energy, maintain immune function, and support bowel repair.
– Dietary recommendations include high-fiber, low-fat, and antioxidant-rich foods to promote bowel motility and nutrient absorption.
• Personalized Monitoring and Care
– Regular colonoscopy, imaging studies, and blood marker evaluations to track tumor changes and recurrence risk.
– Individualized care plans to adjust nutrition, lifestyle, and psychological support.
– Specialized programs for patients with high recurrence risk or impaired bowel function help maintain long-term quality of life.
