When talking about colorectal cancer, a disease that forms malignant tumors in the colon or rectum. Also known as bowel cancer, it accounts for a large share of cancer diagnoses worldwide and often shows up after age 50. Colorectal cancer encompasses both colon and rectal tumors, meaning any abnormal growth in the lower digestive tract falls under this umbrella.
Early detection is the game‑changer. Colonoscopy, a visual exam of the colon using a flexible tube can spot precancerous polyps before they turn malignant, cutting death rates dramatically. Genetics also plays a big role; inheriting mutations like those in the APC or DNA repair genes raises a person’s lifetime risk. But it’s not all destiny—diet matters a lot. A diet high in red meat and low in fiber fuels inflammation, while plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains can lower risk. In short, the disease is influenced by biology, lifestyle and environment, and each piece pushes the odds one way or the other.
When the disease is caught, treatment options expand. Chemotherapy, drug therapy that targets rapidly dividing cells often works alongside surgery or radiation to shrink tumors and kill remaining cancer cells. Lifestyle tweaks—regular exercise, weight control, and quitting smoking—help patients recover faster and can even prevent recurrence. Below you’ll find a curated set of articles that dive deeper into screening methods, genetic testing, treatment plans and everyday habits that support health, giving you a clear roadmap to tackle colorectal cancer head‑on.
