...

Colon cancer screening

Women holding a model of the colon
Colorectal
Symptoms of Colon cancer in women

Colon cancer is a serious health concern, affecting both men and women alike. However, women may experience unique symptoms that differ from those seen in men. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the symptoms of colon cancer in women, including common signs, early warning signs, and the importance of early detection.

Understanding Colon Cancer Symptoms

Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is characterized by the abnormal growth of cells in the colon or rectum. Symptoms may vary depending on the location and stage of the cancer. Common signs of colon cancer include:

  • Changes in Bowel Habits: Persistent changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool, may indicate a potential issue with the colon.
  • Blood in the Stool: Rectal bleeding or the presence of blood in the stool (either bright red or dark in color) can be a warning sign of colon cancer.
  • Abdominal Discomfort: Cramping, bloating, abdominal pain, or discomfort may occur, particularly if the cancer has grown large enough to block the colon or cause obstruction.
  • Unexplained Weight Loss: Significant and unexplained weight loss without changes in diet or exercise habits may be a symptom of advanced colon cancer.
  • Fatigue and Weakness: General feelings of fatigue, weakness, or lethargy that persist despite adequate rest and nutrition may also indicate underlying health issues, including colon cancer.

What are the Signs of Colon Cancer in Women?

While the symptoms of colon cancer can affect both men and women, women may also experience additional signs that are specific to their gender. These may include:

  • Pelvic pain or discomfort: Some women with colon cancer may experience pelvic pain or pressure, which can be mistaken for menstrual cramps or other gynecological issues. Whilst abdominal pain is not a common symptom of colon cancer, persistent pain that feels different to what you have experienced in the past should be investigated. 
  • Anemia: Chronic blood loss from the colon can lead to iron deficiency anemia, characterized by symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and pale skin. Women may be more susceptible to anemia due to menstrual blood loss.
  • Changes in menstrual cycle: Colon cancer can sometimes disrupt hormonal balance, leading to disruptions in the menstrual cycle such as irregular bleeding or spotting between periods.

Importance of Early Detection

Statistics show that early detection and treatment of colon cancer can significantly improve survival rates. According to the American Cancer Society, when colon cancer is diagnosed at an early stage, the five-year survival rate is over 90%. However, if the cancer has spread to distant organs, the five-year survival rate drops to around 14%. 

What age should women start screening for colon cancer?

Women should be proactive about their health and undergo regular screenings, such as colonoscopies, starting at age 45 if they are at average risk or earlier if they have risk factors such as a family history of colon cancer or inflammatory bowel disease. By detecting colon cancer in its early stages, it can be more effectively treated and managed, leading to better long-term outcomes.

March 20, 2024

colon cancer text cloud
Colorectal
Understanding the Stages of Colon Cancer

Colon cancer is a significant health concern worldwide, affecting millions of individuals each year. Understanding the stages of colon cancer is crucial for early detection, timely treatment, and improved outcomes. In this article, we’ll delve into the various stages of colon cancer, from stage 0 to stage IV, and explore key aspects such as progression, staging methods, and prognosis.

What Are the Stages of Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer staging is a systematic way of classifying the extent of the disease based on factors such as tumor size, invasion into surrounding tissues, lymph node involvement, and the presence of distant metastases. The stages of colon cancer help healthcare providers determine the most appropriate treatment approach and predict patient outcomes.

Stage 0

Also known as carcinoma in situ, stage 0 colon cancer is confined to the innermost layer of the colon lining. At this early stage, cancer cells have not invaded deeper layers or spread to nearby lymph nodes or distant organs.

Stage I

In stage I colon cancer, the disease has progressed beyond the inner lining of the colon but has not spread to nearby lymph nodes or distant organs. Tumors at this stage are typically small and localized, with minimal invasion into the deeper layers of the colon wall. 

Despite the absence of lymph node involvement or distant metastases, stage I colon cancer requires prompt medical attention and treatment. Surgical removal of the tumor, often along with a segment of the colon, is the primary treatment approach for stage I colon cancer. In some cases, additional treatments such as chemotherapy or targeted therapy may be recommended based on individual factors.

Stage II

In stage II colon cancer, the disease has progressed beyond the inner lining of the colon and may have penetrated deeper layers of the colon wall. Like stage I, stage II colon cancer has not spread to nearby lymph nodes or distant organs. However, tumors in stage II may be larger and more invasive than those in stage I. 

Treatment for stage II colon cancer typically involves surgical removal of the tumor and surrounding tissue, often followed by adjuvant therapy such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy. The goal of treatment is to remove the cancerous tissue completely and reduce the risk of recurrence. Despite the higher risk of recurrence compared to stage I, many patients with stage II colon cancer can achieve successful outcomes with appropriate treatment and close monitoring.

Stage III 

Stage III colon cancer indicates that cancer cells have spread to nearby lymph nodes but have not metastasized to distant organs. This stage is further subdivided into subcategories (IIIa, IIIb, IIIc) based on the extent of lymph node involvement and other factors such as tumor size and depth of invasion. 

In stage IIIa, cancer cells may be present in one to three nearby lymph nodes, while in stage IIIb, cancer has spread to four or more lymph nodes. Stage IIIc indicates cancer that has spread to nearby lymph nodes and has penetrated through the outermost layers of the colon wall, increasing the risk of recurrence and the need for more aggressive treatment. The prognosis for stage III colon cancer varies depending on factors such as the number of lymph nodes involved, the location of the tumor, and the overall health of the patient.

Stage IV 

Stage IV, also known as metastatic colon cancer, is the most advanced stage, where cancer has spread to distant organs such as the liver, lungs, or other parts of the body. At this stage, the cancer is considered incurable, and the primary goal of treatment is to manage symptoms, control the spread of the disease, and improve the patient’s quality of life. 

Treatment options for stage IV colon cancer may include surgery to remove metastatic tumors, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and other palliative measures to alleviate pain and discomfort.

How are Colon Cancer Stages Determined?

Colorectal cancer staging typically involves a combination of diagnostic tests and imaging studies, including colonoscopy, biopsy, computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET) scans. These tests help healthcare providers determine the stage of the disease and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

How Quickly Does Colon Cancer Progress?

The progression of colon cancer varies widely from person to person and depends on factors such as tumor biology, genetic predisposition, and overall health status. In general, colon cancer tends to develop slowly over several years, progressing through the stages over time. However, some aggressive forms of colon cancer may grow and spread more rapidly.

Prognosis and Treatment Options

The prognosis for colon cancer varies depending on the stage at diagnosis, with earlier stages generally associated with better outcomes. Treatment options for colon cancer may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. The choice of treatment depends on factors such as the stage of the disease, the location of the tumor, and the individual’s overall health.

Regular colorectal screenings, awareness of symptoms, and prompt medical evaluation are key to detecting colon cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages. If you have concerns about your risk of colon cancer or notice any symptoms, consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

March 7, 2024

Colorectal  ·  Surgery Group LA
Guide to Colorectal Cancer Screenings

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. To raise awareness and knowledge of the disease, the Surgery Group of Los Angeles is putting out a short guide on colorectal cancer screenings and advocating for people over 45 to get their first screening test.

What is Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer, or colorectal cancer, is a common type of cancer that affects the colon or rectum. It develops from abnormal growths in the lining of the colon or rectum, known as polyps, which can become cancerous over time. Symptoms may include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, abdominal pain or discomfort, fatigue, and weight loss. Risk factors include age, family history, personal history of polyps or inflammatory bowel disease, and a diet high in red or processed meat and low in fruits and vegetables. Colon cancer is often treatable when caught early through screening tests such as colonoscopies.

When Should I Get Screened?

The age at which you should begin screening for colon cancer depends very much on your symptoms and family history.

If you have a family history of CRC or advanced adenoma in a first-degree relative, it is recommended to undergo a colonoscopy every five years, beginning 10 years before the age at diagnosis of the youngest affected relative, or at age 40, whichever is earlier. 

Those with a single first-degree relative diagnosed with CRC or advanced adenoma at age 60 or older may start average-risk screening at age 40.

Colorectal Cancer Screening Tests

Tests for colon cancer are designed to detect cancer before symptoms arise. When done regularly, these tests can find colorectal cancer when it’s smaller and perhaps even easier to treat. While there are many screening options that we would like to go over with you today, the key is that you are tested. The types of tests that the American Cancer Society recommends are split into two major categories: Visual and Stool based screening. 

Stool Based tests can be separated into two categories: Blood-based and DNA based. While they are less invasive and simpler to perform, they need to be performed far more often than their Visual counterparts. 

  • Blood-based tests come in two forms: Fecal Immunochemical (FIT), or Guaiac-based fecal occult (gFOBT). Both can be performed at home and work by finding trace amounts of hidden blood inside of your stool. Both need to be performed once a year and may require you to avoid red meat and some medicines (ibuprofen, aspirin, and large amounts of Vitamin C) several days before testing. 
  • Stool DNA testing looks instead for certain DNA or gene changes that can form inside of your stool from polyps or cancerous cells. Some tests also check for blood as well. These tests are also can be performed at home, but only need to be done every 3 years 

If any of these tests show positive for blood or DNA changes, a colonoscopy must be performed. It does not however mean that cancer has formed in the colon, as it may also be Ulcers or Hemorrhoids. 

Visual Tests are recommended for patients that have an average to high risk of having colon cancer. They don’t have to be performed as often as their stool counterparts but often require more lead uptime.  

  • A Colonoscopy is the most common form of visual test and if nothing is found abnormal on an average risk patient, will not need to be performed for another 5-10 years. A flexible tube is inserted into the anus, where a small camera allows your doctor to observe the totality of your colon and rectum.  This test is done under twilight anesthesia.  There is of course the “bowel prep” and you will need a ride home, but the test is very safe. 
  • A CT Colonography is very similar to a colonoscopy but due to it being virtual, does not require sedation. It still requires drinking a bowel prep the day before. If any abnormalities are observed, a follow colonoscopy will need to be performed. While less painful, a CT Colonography must be performed every 5 years. 

Regular screening is key in preventing colorectal cancer. If polyps are found during the testing process, they can usually be removed before turning into cancer. If you’re 45 and older talk to your doctor about which test is right for you. Be sure to mention your family medical history, as that will provide key insight into testing your unique situation.  

March 21, 2023



Surgery Group LA is a team of professional and board-licensed surgeons, who specialize of their respective fields. The institution’s project to offer sufferers with advanced and complete surgical care.

Patient Resources

310-861-7493

8635 W 3rd St #880 W
Los Angeles, CA 90048
[email protected]

Facebook Twitter Youtube Instagram Yelp
©2023 Surgery Group LA
CALL Seraphinite AcceleratorBannerText_Seraphinite Accelerator
Turns on site high speed to be attractive for people and search engines.