Darmtumoren

Darmtumoren, also known as colorectal cancer, refers to the development of abnormal cell growth in the colon or rectum. These tumors can be benign, such as polyps, or malignant, meaning they are cancerous and can spread to other parts of the body. The majority of colorectal cancers originate from polyps, which are small growths on the inner lining of the colon or rectum.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing darmtumoren. These include age, with risk increasing significantly after 50, a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, and certain genetic syndromes like Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis. Lifestyle factors also play a role, such as a diet low in fiber and high in red and processed meats, physical inactivity, obesity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption. Inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are also associated with an elevated risk.

Symptoms of darmtumoren can vary and may not appear in the early stages. When they do occur, they can include changes in bowel habits such as diarrhea or constipation, blood in the stool or rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, cramping, or gas, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue.

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, stool tests to detect hidden blood, and endoscopic procedures like colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy, which allow for direct visualization of the colon and rectum and the removal of suspicious polyps. Imaging tests like CT scans may be used to determine the extent of the cancer.

Treatment options depend on the stage of the cancer and may include surgery to remove the tumor, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or targeted therapy. Early detection through regular screening is crucial for improving outcomes, as it allows for the identification and removal of precancerous polyps or the treatment of cancer at its earliest, most curable stage.