Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer found in the large intestine (colon). It begins with the growth of abnormal cells (tumors) that spread and damage the surrounding cells in the mucous lining of the large intestine and rectum. Because of this, this cancer can also be called colon cancer or rectal cancer, depending on where the cancer first appeared.
The large intestine is the largest part of the human digestive tract, and is also the place for absorption of the last nutrients, as well as the formation of waste materials before being transferred to the rectum and then excreted through the anus.
Based on existing data, the number of colorectal cancer cases in Indonesia is more experienced by men than women. Generally, this cancer is experienced by individuals with old age. But still, every individual has the potential to develop this disease.
In general, sufferers will not experience any symptoms when the tumor appears and until the phase of change into cancer cells. Symptoms of colorectal cancer will appear after the cancer cells have spread and caused damage to the body. The symptoms experienced also vary depending on the size and location of the growth of the cancer. Some of the symptoms that sufferers may experience include:
- Digestive problems such as diarrhea or constipation
- Stomach hurts after defecation
- Blood in the stool
- Experiencing stomach cramps, pain, or bloating
- Sudden weight loss
- Feeling nauseous and sometimes vomiting
- Easily tired
The symptoms you experience can vary, so if you experience some of the symptoms that resemble the above, immediately consult a trusted doctor for further examination. Although the cause of the growth of cancer cells is not yet known with certainty, there are several things that trigger colorectal cancer, namely:
- Age: More than 90% of colorectal cancer cases are experienced by someone aged 50 years or more.
- Medical history: A person with a history of cancer or colorectal polyps is more at risk of developing colorectal cancer. Likewise someone from a family who has had cancer or colorectal polyps.
- Inflammatory bowel disease: Colorectal cancer is at high risk for people with ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease.
- Lifestyle: Lack of exercise, lack of fiber and fruit intake, consumption of alcoholic beverages, obesity or overweight, and smoking increase the risk of colorectal cancer.
- Radiotherapy : Radiation exposure to the abdominal area increases the risk of colorectal cancer.
- Diabetes.
*summarized from various sources*