Colon cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the United States, and it is responsible for thousands of deaths each year.
The reason for this is because it is often found late in the game, and by then, the cancer has already progressed to an advanced stage. However, there is hope in the form of early detection and effective treatment: eliminating hidden colon cancer cells through treatment can help patients fight back against the disease.
What are hidden colon cancer cells?
Hidden colon cancer cells are cells that may not be visible on a colonoscopy or other imaging studies. These cells are present in the colon or rectum but are not visible with the naked eye.
The ability to detect these hidden cancer cells is critical because if left untreated, they can eventually spread to other parts of the body, leading to severe complications and a much lower survival rate.
How is colon cancer treated?
Colon cancer is treated using different methods depending on the stage of the cancer and the patient’s overall health. In the early stages, surgery is the most common form of treatment.
The surgeon removes the tumor and surrounding tissue, along with any nearby lymph nodes where cancer may have spread.
In the later stages, chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be necessary to kill any remaining cancer cells or shrink the tumor before surgery.
The majority of patients will need a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation to eliminate all of the cancerous cells in their body.
What is the outlook for colon cancer patients?
The outlook for colon cancer patients depends on many factors, including the stage of the cancer, the patient’s overall health, and the effectiveness of the treatment.
When colon cancer is caught and treated early, the five-year survival rate is around 90%. However, if the cancer has already spread beyond the colon and rectum, the five-year survival rate drops significantly.
How can you prevent colon cancer?
One of the best ways to prevent colon cancer is by getting regular colonoscopies. This screening test can detect precancerous polyps or early-stage cancers, allowing for early intervention and effective treatment.
Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle by eating a diet high in fiber and low in red meat, exercising regularly, and not smoking can decrease your risk of developing colon cancer.
Conclusion
Eliminating hidden colon cancer cells through treatment is critical to ensuring the best possible outcome for patients.
By catching the cancer early and using a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, it is possible to eliminate all of the cancerous cells in the body and improve a patient’s chances of survival.
By taking preventative measures such as regular colonoscopies and healthy lifestyle choices, individuals can lower their risk of developing colon cancer in the first place and catch it early if it does occur.