Colorectal cancer, also called bowel cancer or rectal cancer, is the third most common cancer type globally (as per 2022 survey). It is a cancer that starts in the lowest part of the large intestine (the colon) or rectum. It is more likely to develop in those who were already diagnosed with noncancerous growth, called a polyp.
Since polyps are a significant risk factor for colorectal cancer, this highlights the importance of early diagnosis of these conditions, regular screening, and taking preventive measures.
Treatment Options & Prognosis
It is true that cancer treatment has improved much lately, especially in the last 50 years. Hence, it can be treated with great success if diagnosed early. Therefore, the general recommendation is that all people above the age of 45 must regularly undergo screening for colorectal cancer risk.
When it comes to treatment, surgical removal of cancer tissues, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy still form the backbone of colorectal cancer treatment. However, more advanced targeted and safer therapies, such as immunotherapy, are also emerging.
Prevalence of Colorectal Cancer
Globally colorectal cancer is responsible for 10% of all new cancer cases or about 2 million cases.
Additionally, it is worth noting that it is among the few cancer types that are on the rise globally. Even worse, due to a lack of awareness, only about 60-70% cases of colorectal cancer cases are nonmetastatic. It means that more than one-third of cases are diagnosed quite late when the cancer has spread beyond its initial location (to other body parts), and such cancer is very challenging to manage.
Colorectal Cancer Survival Statistics
Five-year survival rates with colon cancer have also improved significantly. Thus, more than 90% of people diagnosed with stage 1 (localized) colon cancer can expect to live more than five years, and many might expect complete disease remission ( a condition when a person is almost symptoms-free and feels quite well but not cured of cancer). However, five-year survival rates decline if the cancer is more advanced at the time of diagnosis.
Learning Resources
Learning more about colorectal cancer may help lower its risk, increase awareness, and influence patient survival. Those who are diagnosed with colorectal cancer have many questions, and here are some highly reliable and scientifically accurate resources to learn more about colorectal cancer. These are also excellent sources for anyone wanting to learn more about colorectal cancer, like its causes, preventive measures, screening methods, latest treatment approaches, and more:
 | Pros: Highly reliable information resource, as it is run by the US government. It has extensive information about causes, prevention, treatment options, screening, and information on living with it.Cons: Official government source that avoids recommending traditional medicine and focuses less on lifestyle interventions. |
 | Pros: It is yet another highly reliable and among the most reputed non-profit organizations providing all kinds of information related to colon cancer. Unlike NIH, it also provides some support, and there is an option to share stories and read experiences of cancer survivors, which may be really motivating. And, yes, there is a chat room, too.Cons: Using certain functions requires login. Additionally, the resources are more focused on the US population. |
 | Pros: Unlike the two resources, it is solely dedicated to colorectal cancer, providing extensive and balanced information. It also has a better support group and support community.Cons: More stress on interaction and psychological support than providing in-depth information about disease. However, it is not essentially a significant downside. |
 | Pros: Highly reputed colorectal cancer information source, with detailed information in the Thai language about treatment options and advice on living with cancer, overcoming it, and living after it.Cons: Some medical information may not be up-to-date and may not reflect the latest scientific findings. |
The information sources above are highly reliable for those living with colorectal cancer. It is strongly recommended that patients use them to learn more about it. These resources and doctor’s advice are some of the best information sources for patients.
