Colon cancer is a type of cancer that affects the colon or rectum, which are part of the digestive system. It is the third most common cancer worldwide and can be fatal if not detected early.

The severity of colon cancer depends on several factors, which are discussed below.

Age

Age is a major risk factor for developing colon cancer. Most cases of colon cancer occur in people over the age of 50. The risk of developing colon cancer increases with age.

Therefore, elderly people are more likely to have a more severe form of colon cancer compared to younger people.

Family history of colon cancer

If you have a family history of colon cancer, you are at a higher risk of developing the condition. People with a family history of colon cancer are more likely to develop the condition at a younger age and have a more aggressive form of the disease.

Diet

Your diet can also affect the severity of colon cancer. A diet that is high in red and processed meat, alcohol, and low in fiber is associated with an increased risk of colon cancer.

These types of foods can lead to chronic inflammation in the colon, which can damage the lining and increase the risk of cancer. On the other hand, a diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can lower the risk of colon cancer and may also make the disease less severe.

Obesity

Obesity is also a risk factor for colon cancer. People who are obese are more likely to develop colon cancer and have a higher risk of dying from the disease.

In addition, obese people with colon cancer are more likely to have a more severe form of the disease.

Smoking

Smoking is a risk factor for many types of cancer, including colon cancer. People who smoke are more likely to develop colon cancer and have a more severe form of the disease compared to non-smokers.

Smoking can lead to chronic inflammation in the colon, which can increase the risk of cancer.

Alcohol consumption

Alcohol consumption is another risk factor for colon cancer. Heavy drinkers are more likely to develop colon cancer and have a more severe form of the disease. Alcohol can damage the lining of the colon and increase the risk of cancer.

Even moderate alcohol consumption is associated with an increased risk of colon cancer.

Stage of cancer

The stage of colon cancer is another factor that determines its severity. The stage of cancer refers to the extent of the disease and whether it has spread to other parts of the body.

Early-stage colon cancer is easier to treat and has a better prognosis compared to advanced-stage colon cancer. Therefore, it is important to detect colon cancer early to increase the chances of successful treatment.

Treatment options

The treatment options for colon cancer can also affect its severity. Surgery is the most common treatment for colon cancer and is used to remove the cancerous tissue.

Chemotherapy and radiation therapy may also be used to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. The type and duration of treatment depend on the stage and type of colon cancer. The success of treatment can also affect the severity of colon cancer.

Genetic mutations

Genetic mutations can also play a role in the severity of colon cancer. Some genetic mutations increase the risk of developing colon cancer, while others increase the risk of having a more aggressive form of the disease.

For example, people with Lynch syndrome, which is an inherited condition, have a higher risk of developing colon cancer and tend to have a more severe form of the disease.

Overall health

Lastly, your overall health can also affect the severity of colon cancer.

People who are in good health and have a strong immune system may have a better prognosis compared to people with underlying health conditions that may weaken their immune system or make it harder to tolerate treatment.