Comparison of colorectal cancer and colon cancer

Colorectal and colon cancers both start in the digestive system, particularly the large intestine. These cancers also have other characteristics in common:

incident

Colorectal and colon cancers are among the most common types of cancer worldwide. It is more prevalent in developed countries and occurs more frequently in older people.

The incidence of both cancers is increased In recent years, infections have been spreading among young people, emphasizing the importance of early detection and screening.

symptoms

Both colorectal and colon cancers can cause the following symptoms: similar symptomsinclude:

• Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation
• rectal bleeding or bloody stools
• abdominal pain or cramps
• Unexplained weight loss
• Malaise
• Feeling that the bowels are not completely empty

Learn more about colon cancer and back pain.

If someone is experiencing new symptoms or has concerns in general, they should consult a health care professional.

Risk factor

Common risk factors Colorectal and colon cancers include:

• Age (risk increases with age)
• Family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
• Personal history of colorectal cancer or polyps
• Inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease
• Certain genetic diseases, such as Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis

Lifestyle factors can also increase your risk for both types of cancer, including:

• Meals high in red and processed meat
• low fiber intake
• A life without physical activity
• obesity
• smoking
• heavy alcohol intake

cause

Both cancers are caused by the accumulation of genetic mutations in the cells lining the large intestine. These mutations can cause uncontrolled cell growth and form tumors.

Additionally, both cancers have genetic mutations that control their growth, such as familial adenomatous polyposis.

sieving

Screening plays an important role in the early detection and prevention of both colorectal and colon cancer. The steps are the same for both and include:

• stool-based test
• Visual examination (colonoscopy and flexible sigmoidoscopy)
• polyp removal

Experts recommend that people at average risk begin regular screening when: 45 years old. Screening can begin earlier for people at higher risk, such as those with certain risk factors or a family history of colorectal cancer.

Click here for more information about colorectal cancer screening.

Survival rate

Survival rates for colorectal and colon cancer depend on several factors, including:

• stages of disease
• The presence of metastases, or the spread of cancer to other parts of the body
• the person’s overall health

In general, survival rates for rectal and colon cancers are about the same. However, the overall 5-year survival rate for colon cancer is reported to be slightly lower (63%) than for rectal cancer (68%). American Cancer Society.

Learn more about how doctors determine survival rates.

There are also important differences between colorectal and colon cancers that affect their management:

anatomy

Colorectal cancer includes cancer that starts in either the colon or rectum. Colon cancer specifically refers to cancer that originates in the colon.

The anatomy of the colon and rectum is different. The rectum is close to other organs and lacks a protective outer layer, the serosa. This makes rectal cancer more likely to metastasize.

recurrence

Colorectal and colon cancers can come back after initial treatment. The risk of recurrence depends on many factors, including:

• Cancer stage at diagnosis
• effectiveness of treatment
• Other factors

Recurrence also differs slightly between colorectal and colon cancers. A 2019 study followed 188 patients with rectal adenocarcinoma. Researchers found local recurrence. up to 45% After five years.

In a 2016 study, researchers found that: 30-40% A higher proportion of people treated for colon cancer have recurrence.

metastasis

Both cancers can spread to other parts of the body by entering the bloodstream or lymphatic system.

Rectal tumors can easily spread because of their proximity to blood vessels.They are Tend It can spread to the lungs and nervous system. Conversely, colon cancer often spreads to the liver.

Learn more about metastatic colorectal cancer.

gender difference

There are slight differences in the incidence and location of colorectal and colon cancers in men and women. In general, men tend to: taller than Colorectal cancer incidence.

process

Broadly speaking, the types of treatments available for both colorectal and colon cancer include:

However, drugs and approaches may differ depending on the cancer. For example, surgery may not be possible in the later stages of colon cancer.

For either cancer, the specific treatment plan depends on:

• cancer stages
• Characteristics of cancer
• the person’s overall health
• previous treatment

In addition, people with rectal cancer often need A permanent colostomy is required after surgery because the cancer can affect the lower rectum and anal sphincter.

Colorectal and colon cancers are related but distinct diseases, each with unique characteristics and treatment approaches.

Although there are many similarities, including symptoms, there are notable differences in anatomy, survival rates, and treatment plans. If you have new symptoms or concerns, you may need to see a health care professional.

Doctors can use various tests to distinguish between the two. In general, understanding the differences between colorectal cancer and colon cancer is critical to accurate diagnosis and determining appropriate treatment.