Colorectal Cancer: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Understanding Colorectal Cancer

Overview

Colorectal cancer is a slow-growing cancer that originates in the lining of the colon or rectum. Early-stage symptoms can be minimal, but as the disease progresses, patients may experience abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, and weight loss. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and emerging therapies like immunotherapy and stem cell treatment.

Colorectal Cancer Causes

Several factors increase the risk of colorectal cancer, including:

Genetics – Family history of colorectal cancer or polyps.
Dietary factors – High consumption of red and processed meats, low fiber intake.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) – Conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis increase risk.
Age – Risk increases after age 50.
Lifestyle factors – Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and lack of exercise.

Colorectal Cancer Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending on the stage but commonly include:

✅ Persistent changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation).

✅ Blood in stool or rectal bleeding.

✅ Unexplained weight loss.

✅ Abdominal pain, cramps, or bloating.

✅ Feeling of incomplete bowel emptying.

✅ Fatigue and weakness.

Colorectal Cancer Screening

Early detection through colonoscopy, stool tests, and CT colonography increases survival rates. People over 50 (or earlier for high-risk individuals) should undergo regular screenings.

Colon Cancer Treatment by Stage

Stage 1: Surgery to remove polyps or tumors.
Stage 2: Surgery with possible chemotherapy.
Stage 3: Combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
Stage 4: Advanced treatments, including targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and clinical trials.

Can Colon Cancer Be Cured Without Surgery?

While surgery remains the most effective treatment, some cases may benefit from non-surgical treatments like:

Targeted therapies – Block cancer cell growth.
Immunotherapy – Helps the immune system attack cancer cells.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) – Herbal treatments and acupuncture may support symptom relief.
Stem Cell Therapy – Under research for its potential in treating advanced colorectal cancer.

New Treatment for Colon Cancer Stage 4

Emerging treatments include:

CAR-T cell therapy – A form of immunotherapy that modifies the patient’s immune cells to attack cancer.
Liquid biopsies – Used for detecting tumor DNA in the bloodstream.
Gene therapy – Personalized treatment based on genetic mutations.

Colorectal Cancer Surgery

Surgical options depend on tumor location and stage:

Colectomy – Removal of part or all of the colon.
Colostomy/Ileostomy – Creating an opening for waste removal if the colon cannot function properly.
Minimally invasive robotic-assisted surgery – Allows faster recovery and less scarring.

Related Doctors

Dr. Yu Qian – Gastroenterologist (Nanjing Hospital)

Chinese Name: 俞谦

Degree: Chief Physician, Associate Professor, Master's Supervisor

Experience: 20 years

Speciality: Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Treatment

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Dr. Zhang Jintao – Specialist in Colorectal & Anorectal Surgery (DongZhiMen Hospital)

Chinese Name: 张金涛

Degree: Medical Degree, Specialized in Colorectal Surgery

Experience: 13 years

Speciality: Colorectal Surgery, Anorectal Surgery

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Dr. Dong Rongfen – Specialist in Digestive Disorders (DongZhiMen Hospital)

Chinese Name: 董荣芬

Degree: Doctorate in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Experience: 42 years

Speciality: Traditional Chinese Medicine

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Dr. Liu Shuangyou (BoRen Hospital)

Chinese Name: 刘双又

Degree: Chief Physician, Doctor of Medicine

Experience: 20 years

Speciality: Hematology, Oncology

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Dr. Tong Chunrong (BoRen Hospital)

Chinese Name: 童春容

Degree: Chief Physician, Director of Immunotherapy and Targeted Therapy

Experience: 30 years

Speciality: Oncology, Hematology, Immunotherapy, Targeted Therapy

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Related Packages

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Related Treatments

Colorectal Surgery

Colorectal surgery treats conditions affecting the large intestine (colon), rectum, and anus. These procedures range from minimally invasive laparoscopic surgeries to major surgeries like colectomy (removal of part/all of the colon). Recovery times and outcomes depend on the specific procedure and overall health of the patient.

China Price: $5000 USD

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Biologic Therapy

Biologic therapy involves using laboratory-produced molecules derived from living cells to target specific components of the immune system. It is widely used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, asthma, and various cancers. China’s hospitals offer biologic therapy at lower prices with internationally recognized standards.

China Price: $700 USD

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Herbal Medicine Therapy

Herbal medicine therapy is a natural and effective treatment that enhances the body's ability to heal. It is widely used in rehabilitation programs for chronic conditions, pain management, and immune system support. China is one of the best destinations for herbal medicine therapy due to its extensive expertise in TCM and affordable treatment costs.

China Price: $50 USD

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Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a natural therapy that promotes the body's self-healing process. It is widely used in rehabilitation for conditions such as stroke recovery, rheumatoid arthritis, and bowel diseases. Acupuncture helps reduce inflammation, improve blood circulation, and restore nerve function.

China Price: $40 USD

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CAR-T Cell Therapy

CAR-T Cell Therapy is a personalized immunotherapy treatment where a patient’s own T-cells are genetically engineered to recognize and destroy cancer cells. It is primarily used for blood cancers like leukemia and lymphoma.

China Price: $100000 USD

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Chemotherapy

What Is Chemotherapy? Chemotherapy is a cancer treatment that uses drugs to destroy or slow the growth of cancer cells. It is often used alone or in combination with other treatments such as surgery or radiation. Benefits of Chemotherapy: ✅ Targets and kills cancer cells ✅ Can shrink tumors before surgery ✅ Helps prevent cancer recurrence ✅ Can be used for various cancer types

China Price: $5000 USD

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Stem Cell Therapy

Stem cell therapy uses specialized cells to regenerate and repair damaged tissues. This treatment is used for a variety of chronic diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and autoimmune conditions, helping patients recover lost function, reduce inflammation, and improve quality of life. China offers one of the most advanced and cost-effective stem cell therapies in the world.

China Price: $5000 USD

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Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to target specific molecules involved in the growth and spread of cancer. Unlike traditional chemotherapy, which affects all rapidly dividing cells, targeted therapy focuses on cancer cells, leading to fewer side effects.

China Price: $4000 USD

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Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is a treatment that uses the body's own immune system to detect, attack, and eliminate disease cells. It is widely used for cancer treatment, allergies, and some chronic diseases.

China Price: $12000 USD

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Traditional Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is based on the concept of Qi (vital energy) and Yin-Yang balance. It aims to restore harmony within the body by using natural therapies such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and therapeutic massage. TCM is widely used for pain relief, stress management, chronic diseases, and overall well-being.

China Price: $50 USD

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are 3 warning signs or symptoms of colorectal cancer?

Persistent changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, and unexplained weight loss.

What is life expectancy for colon cancer?

Depends on the stage; early detection leads to a 90% five-year survival rate.

What is the main cause of colorectal cancer?

Genetics, poor diet, inflammatory conditions, and lifestyle factors.

Which cancers are 100% curable?

Early-stage colorectal, prostate, and some skin cancers have high cure rates.

What is the best treatment for colorectal cancer?

A combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy.

Can you live a long life after colon cancer?

Yes, if detected early, patients can live cancer-free for decades.

Is Stage 1 colon cancer curable?

Yes, surgical removal of early-stage tumors has a high success rate.

Is colorectal cancer curable?

Yes, especially if diagnosed in early stages and treated promptly.