The cells in the lining of the colon or large intestine are constantly renewing themselves, but the genes that regulate this process can go haywire, resulting in excessive cell growth. This gives rise to polyps, which are tiny growths or aberrant collections of cells. The majority of these polyps are harmless, but some can turn malignant if their cells grow and divide too quickly, causing them to protrude farther into the colon. They can then develop into colon cancer, which is one of the most common and avoidable cancers in the world.
It takes a little polyp up to ten years to grow and turn into a malignant one, though development durations vary. While we do not know what causes the majority of colon polyps and cancers, we do know that colon cancer is caused by the activation of oncogenes in the polyp, as well as the loss of tumor-suppressor genes that normally keep cancer cells in check.
Proto-oncogenes are proteins that help cells grow. When a proto-oncogene mutates or has too many copies, it might become a permanently active oncogene, causing uncontrolled cell growth. While the specific causes of these alterations are unknown, experts believe they are caused by a combination of environmental and inherited genetic variables. When cells within polyps divide and expand uncontrollably, they can eventually break through the lining of the colon. Lymph and blood vessels transport those cells throughout the body, where they can eventually form tumors.
The good news is that we have become extremely good at diagnosing and removing cancer-causing polyps before they develop cancer. This is accomplished by a procedure known as screening, which, when performed on a regular basis, can help to prevent many cases of colon cancer.
The majority of instances affect adults over the age of 50. Colon cancer and polyps are regarded to be of average risk in this population. People with a personal or family history of colon polyps or cancer, as well as those with inherited genetic disorders or inflammatory conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, are at a higher risk. As a result, the ideal age to begin screening differs from person to person. If you have access to healthcare, you should speak with a doctor to determine when you should start. Various tests can be used for screening.
Colonoscopy is a procedure in which a long, thin, flexible tube with a video camera and light at the end is inserted into the colon to look for polyps. If polyps are discovered, a doctor can perform a polypectomy, which involves removing the polyps from the colonic wall. The polyp can then be tested for malignant cells by doctors. The only test that can both detect and remove polyps is colonoscopy.
Other screening tests, such as imaging and at-home diagnostics that allow patients to analyse their stool for minute quantities of blood, are also useful. In some cases, polyps are too large to be removed during a colonoscopy, and surgery is required. If blood and imaging tests reveal that malignant cells have moved outside the colon, a particular treatment, such as chemotherapy, may be needed to prevent the cancer from spreading further.
We can also adopt certain habits to lower our chances of getting colon cancer in the first place. Maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and being physically active have all been shown to be beneficial.
But, most significantly, having access to healthcare and having regular checkups at key points in one’s life are the most effective measures to avoid colon cancer.
