Colorectal cancer, also known as bowel or colon cancer, is the development of malignant cells in the colon or rectum. These cells can spread and affect other organs, and treatments can compromise the immune system, making patients susceptible to other diseases.
To improve the diagnosis of this condition, experts in this field attend colorectal cancer CE, or continuing education. These seminars cover updated information about this illness, allowing professionals specializing in this field to learn about new treatment methods, medication, and healthcare regimens. Continue to read on to learn more about this illness.
Causes and Risk Factors
Colon cancer forms when healthy cells begin to mutate. This change damages the cells and causes them to become cancerous. It can also make the cells’ growth and production become uncontrollable.
According to colorectal cancer CME, or continuing medical education, there are many factors attributed to the growth of cancer cells in the large intestine. They include:
- Being age 50 and older
- Ahistory of colorectal problems
- A family history of this condition
- Smoking and alcohol use
Symptoms
Here are some of the symptoms that may indicate whether a patient has this disease:
- Rectal bleeding or presence of blood in the stool
- Constant abdominal discomfort such as cramps
- Weakness or fatigue
- Sudden weight loss
- Regular changes in bowel movements
When these signs are present, the patient should immediately seek the help of a specialist.
Diagnosis
Physicians will ask for patients’ information, including family history, to see the potential risk of developing colon cancer. They’ll recommend patients undergo a series of diagnostics, which include a blood test, colonoscopy, and biopsy, to determine the presence of malignant cells in the large intestine that may later develop as cancer.
If a tumor is present, the doctor may recommend a series of imaging tests to see its anatomical position and size. These include CT scan, MRI, X-ray, and ultrasound.
Treatment
The treatment for this condition depends on its location, stage, and patients’ other health concerns. Surgery is often required to remove the tumor. Additional procedures, such as radiation therapy and medication, may be mandatory.
Presently, there’s still no known cure for this disease. That’s why medical experts are striving to enhance their craft and expand their knowledge to learn more about it. With their commitment to colorectal cancer CE, they’ll continue to improve healthcare service to help those afflicted with this condition.