Bowel cancer, also called colorectal cancer, is one of the most common types of cancer. It often develops from tiny growths called polyps in the colon or rectum. Treatment is much more effective when detected early, and survival rates are higher. Many people don’t notice symptoms in the early stages, making screening essential. Early stage bowel cancer can be treated successfully if caught in time. Here is a detailed guest post on how doctors diagnose and treat this condition before it progresses to an advanced stage.
How Doctors Diagnose Early Stage Bowel Cancer
Doctors use several methods to detect early stage bowel cancer before symptoms become severe. Regular screening plays a significant role in early diagnosis.
Screening Tests for Early Detection
Doctors recommend screening to find signs of bowel cancer before symptoms appear. People over 50 or those with a family history of bowel cancer should get regular checkups.
- Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): This test detects hidden blood in the stool, indicating polyps or cancer.
- Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT): Similar to FIT, this test checks for tiny traces of blood in the stool.
- Stool DNA Test: This test looks for genetic markers that might indicate cancerous or pre-cancerous growths.
Colonoscopy: The Most Reliable Test
A colonoscopy allows doctors to examine the inside of the colon and rectum. A long, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the rectum to check for polyps or abnormal growths. If doctors find anything unusual, they may take a small tissue sample for testing.
Biopsy: Confirming the Diagnosis
If a suspicious growth is found, doctors remove a small tissue sample during a biopsy. This sample is examined under a microscope to check for cancer cells. If cancer is detected at an early stage, doctors can start treatment right away.
Treatment Options for Early-Stage Bowel Cancer
Early stage bowel cancer is easier to treat than advanced cancer. The treatment plan depends on the size and location of the tumour.
Surgical Removal of Cancerous Polyps
If the cancer is limited to small polyps, doctors may remove them during a colonoscopy. This procedure is called a polypectomy. It prevents cancer from spreading and sometimes eliminates the need for further treatment.
Colectomy: Removing a Section of the Colon
When cancer has grown beyond polyps but hasn’t spread far, surgeons may remove a small section of the colon. This colectomy surgery involves removing the affected part of the bowel and reconnecting the healthy sections. It helps stop cancer from spreading.
Chemotherapy After Surgery
Doctors sometimes recommend chemotherapy after surgery. This treatment helps destroy any remaining cancer cells and lowers the chances of recurrence. Patients with a high risk of cancer returning may benefit from this approach.
Radiotherapy for Certain Cases
Radiotherapy is less common for colon cancer but is sometimes used for rectal cancer. It uses high-energy radiation to shrink tumours before surgery or eliminate cancer cells after treatment.
How to Check Your Skin for Skin Cancer While Monitoring Overall Health
People concerned about early stage bowel cancer should also pay attention to other potential health risks, including skin cancer. Many individuals overlook skin changes that could indicate severe conditions.
Why Skin Self-Exams Matter
Checking the skin regularly helps detect suspicious moles or spots early. Many skin cancers are curable if found in the early stages. Understanding how to check your skin for skin cancer can lead to early diagnosis and better treatment outcomes.
Steps to Perform a Skin Check
- Stand before a mirror and examine the entire body, including hard-to-see areas.
- Look for moles or spots that have changed in size, shape, or colour.
- Use a handheld mirror to check the back, scalp, and behind the ears.
- If any unusual marks appear, consult a doctor for further evaluation.
By knowing how to check your skin for skin cancer, individuals can improve their overall health awareness and detect issues before they become serious.
Final Thoughts
Early stage bowel cancer is highly treatable when diagnosed in time. Regular screening tests like FIT, colonoscopy, and biopsy help catch cancer before it spreads. If detected early, treatment options such as polypectomy, colectomy, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy can improve survival rates. People should also stay informed about how to check their skin for skin cancer, as early detection of any health issue leads to better outcomes. Monitoring overall health and seeking medical advice when something seems unusual can save lives. Taking these steps ensures timely diagnosis and effective treatment.