[Reading My Body with Jung Shim-kyo] Different Symptoms Depending on the Location of Colon Cancer
According to the ‘National Cancer Registration Statistics,’ the most common cancers in Korea in 2022 were thyroid cancer (12%) and colon cancer (11.8%) (as announced by the Ministry of Health and Welfare and the National Cancer Center). When we think of colon cancer symptoms, bleeding stools often come to mind. However, bleeding stools may not occur depending on where the colon cancer is located. With insights from Kim Jung-gi, the chief of surgery at Bundang Jesaeng Hospital, we explore the causes of colon cancer and the characteristic symptoms based on where it occurs.
Colon cancer is a malignant tumor that occurs in the colon, which consists of the cecum, colon (ascending colon, transverse colon, descending colon, sigmoid colon), and rectum. Genetic factors, lifestyle, diet, and environmental factors all play important roles in the development of colon cancer.
Kim Jung-gi explained, “Excessive consumption of meat or animal fats, especially ham and sausages, can cause inflammation in the colon and mutate cells, promoting cancer development. Alcohol damages the intestinal mucosa, and carcinogens in cigarettes can negatively affect the colon.” He also warned that if conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis persist, inflammation can damage the intestinal mucosa, leading to cell mutation and potential cancer development.
The colon is divided into the ‘colon’ and ‘rectum.’ Symptoms usually appear sooner the closer the cancer is to the anus.
The cancer occurring in the rectum, near the anus, is called ‘rectal cancer.’ Common symptoms include frequent occurrences of blood in the stool or mucus mixed with the stool. A persistent feeling of incomplete evacuation after a bowel movement can indicate cancer near the anus.
The symptoms of colon cancer can vary depending on its location. ‘Right colon cancer’ typically causes pain in the right abdomen, weight loss, and anemia. Blood may not appear in the stool, so bleeding stools are rare. Right colon cancer often presents no symptoms until it progresses. Sometimes, an ‘unexplained anemia’ in people over 60 is identified as right colon cancer on further examination.
‘Left colon cancer’ commonly results in narrower stools, constipation, and abdominal bloating. The tumor can obstruct the left side of the colon, increasing the risk of bowel obstruction.
Detecting colon cancer early is crucial for significantly improving patient survival rates. Colonoscopy is the most effective and reliable test for the early detection of colon cancer. Regular endoscopic examinations can identify polyps or precancerous symptoms early and allow for immediate removal. Tests like fecal occult blood tests to detect blood in the stool, colon CT scans, and rectal digital exams are used to diagnose colon cancer.
Colon cancer treatment methods vary by the cancer stage, the patient’s health, and the characteristics of the cancer cells. With advancements, including existing surgeries, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and the latest radiation technologies, the effectiveness of colon cancer treatment has greatly improved.
Kim Jung-gi stated, “The goal of colon cancer surgery is to remove the cancer while maintaining colon function as much as possible. Nowadays, with robotic surgical equipment, even in cases requiring complex surgeries or in difficult locations, it is possible to precisely excise the cancer area.”
Chronic stress and lack of sleep can impair immune function and cause inflammation, increasing cancer risks. Abdominal obesity is a significant risk factor for colon cancer. It is important to prevent colon cancer through proper diet and healthy lifestyle habits and detect it early through regular check-ups.