Utilizing State-of-the-Art Technologies for Colon Cancer Screening, Diagnostics
& Care
The colon, or large intestine, is a major part of our digestive system
and is responsible for breaking down the food we eat. Colon cancer occurs
when malignant cells are found in colon tissue, and when spotted early,
this cancer has a high rate of successful treatment. The challenge is
that early stages of colon cancer rarely display symptoms, which means
that routine screenings are often the best way to identify and remove
polyps—reducing the risk of tumors from forming. While the specific
cause of colon cancer is still unknown, there are certain factors that
can increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer.
Risk factors include:
A history of colon or rectal cancer in a parent, sibling, or child
A personal history of breast, uterine, ovarian, colon, or rectal cancer
A personal history of Crohn disease, chronic ulcerative colitis, or high-risk adenomas
An increased risk of familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or Lynch syndrome
Obesity
Lifestyle factors, such as smoking cigarettes and having three or more
alcoholic beverages a day
Age and race are also factors in developing colon cancer. For those at
average risk of colon cancer, it is recommended to begin screening for
colon cancer at 45 years of age. If you are at higher risk, it is advised
to start your routine screenings at a younger age. Your primary care physician
can help you determine a screening routine.
Stages of Colon Cancer
If colon cancer is discovered, the next step is to determine the size of
the tumor(s) and whether it has spread to other parts of the body. Our
oncology specialists will utilize the most innovative technologies, including
CT scans and MRIs, to help us understand the extent of your cancer. The
stage of cancer refers to how the tumor has metastasized or grown and
will impact the type of treatment options available to you.
Stage 1: Cancer is present in the mucosa of the colon wall and has spread to the
sublayer or muscle layer.
Stage 2: Further divided into IIA, IIB, and IIC, this stage describes the cancer
spreading to the outermost layer of the colon wall and potentially affecting
nearby organs.
Stage 3: Also divided into IIIA, IIIB, and IIIC, this stage encompasses the spread
of cancer to lymph nodes in and around the colon wall, serosa, or nearby tissue.
Stage 4: Further divided into IVA, IVB, and IVC, this stage describes cancer spreading
to one or more organs or tissue, such as the liver, lung, ovaries, abdominal
tissue, or distant lymph node.
Customized Treatment Options for Colon Cancer
At Shannon, we provide comprehensive treatment options for colon cancer.
These include surgical treatments—such as resections or colostomy—radiofrequency
ablation, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted drug therapies.
Additionally, our renowned center continues to take part in the research
process by providing clinical trial options for certain cancers. No matter
the stage of colon cancer you are facing, you can count on our multidisciplinary
team to provide the quality care you deserve, close to home.
To learn more about our colon cancer screening, diagnosis, treatment, and
recovery services, reach out to our Shannon Oncology Center at
325.747.2025.
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