Overview

Colorectal cancer is a cancer that develops in the colon or rectum, parts of the large intestine. It usually starts as small, noncancerous growths called polyps that can slowly turn into cancer over time. Colorectal cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the world. It can affect both men and women. The risk goes up as you get older, especially after age 50. Routine screening is important because early stages may not show any signs. When found early, colorectal cancer is often easy to treat and has good results.

Symptoms
Some common signs are changes in bowel habits, like diarrhoea or constipation that won't go away, blood in the stool, stomach pain, and the feeling that the bowel isn't emptying completely. You might also lose weight for no reason, feel tired, and have anaemia. In later stages, people may have constant abdominal pain or signs of blockage.

Causes
The exact cause of colorectal cancer is unknown, but some things that make it more likely to happen are getting older, having a family history of it, having genetic conditions passed down from parents, having inflammatory bowel disease, and having had polyps before. A low-fibre diet, eating a lot of red meat, being overweight, smoking, and not getting enough exercise are all lifestyle choices that raise the risk. Diabetes and drinking alcohol may also play a role.

Diagnosis
Diagnosis includes stool tests to find hidden blood, a colonoscopy to see and remove suspicious polyps, and a biopsy to confirm cancer. CT scans and other imaging tests can help figure out the stage of cancer and whether it has spread. Early screening greatly improves finding things.

Treatment
The stage and location of the cancer determine the treatment. The main treatment is often surgery to remove the tumor. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy may be utilized prior to or following surgery, especially in advanced cases. In some cases, doctors may suggest targeted therapy or immunotherapy. It is very important to keep following up.

The outlook depends on how far along the diagnosis is. People with early-stage colorectal cancer have a good chance of living. Regular screenings and healthy habits greatly lower risk and improve results. The best way to stay safe is still to find out about problems early.