FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC BAUCHI

DEPARTMENT OF NUTRITION AND DIETETICS

COURSE TITLE/CODE:

ASSIGNMENT

GROUP 15

NAMES REG. NO

HARUNA AMINA ADAM

UMAR SALAHA

SALEH FATIMA SABO

UMAR BADEET IDRIS

SUNDAY MIRACLE

KABIRU AISHATU

USMAN HAFSAT BAKO

DANJUMA AISHA AYISA

JAMES PEACE

ABDULFATAH KHADIJA

QUESTIONS

1. Definition of cancer of the colon

2. Function of the part (organ) affected by cancer of the colon

3. Etiology of the cancer of the colon

4. Signs and symptoms of cancer of the colon

5. Risk factor of the cancer of the colon

6. Prevention of the cancer of the colon

7. Diagnosis of the cancer of the colon

8. Dietary management of cancer of the colon.

9. Other management of the cancer of the colon

CANCER OF THE COLON: A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW

Cancer of the colon, also known as colorectal cancer, is a disease in which cells in
the colon or rectum become abnormal and grow out of control, forming a tumor.
The colon, a part of the large intestine, plays a crucial role in the digestive
process, and its dysfunction due to cancer can lead to various health
complications.

DEFINITION OF CANCER OF THE COLON

Cancer of the colon is a type of cancer that originates in the colon, which is the
large intestine. It involves the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells that can
invade or spread to other parts of the body. This cancer often begins as small,
noncancerous clumps of cells called polyps, which may develop into cancerous
tumors over time.

FUNCTION OF THE PART (ORGAN) AFFECTED BY CANCER OF THE COLON

The colon, or large intestine, is responsible for several key functions in the
digestive system. Its primary roles include absorbing water and electrolytes from
undigested food, forming and storing feces, and housing beneficial bacteria that
aid in digestion and produce certain vitamins. The colon propels waste through
peristaltic movements, ultimately leading to elimination.

The organ affected by cancer of the colon is the colon, which is a major part of the
large intestine in the digestive system.

FUNCTIONS OF THE COLON:

1. Water and Electrolyte Absorption: The colon absorbs water and salts
(electrolytes) from the remaining indigestible food matter. This helps form solid
stool (feces) from liquid waste.

2. Formation and Storage of Feces: The colon compacts waste into feces and
stores it until it is ready to be expelled during a bowel movement.

3. Bacterial Fermentation: The colon houses beneficial bacteria that break down
some undigested food, especially fiber, producing gases and short-chain fatty
acids that support colon health.

4. Maintenance of Fluid and pH Balance: It helps regulate the body's fluid balance
and maintain the right pH level in the gut.

5. Immune Function: The colon plays a role in immune defense, as the gut
microbiome interacts with the immune system to help protect against harmful
pathogens.

When Cancer Affects the Colon:

These functions may become impaired, leading to:

1. Diarrhea or constipation

2. Dehydration

3. Nutrient imbalance

4. Pain or bloating

5. Bleeding or blockage
ETIOLOGY OF CANCER OF THE COLON

The exact cause of colon cancer is not fully understood, but it is believed to result
from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Genetic mutations can
occur spontaneously or be inherited, leading to uncontrolled cell growth.
Environmental factors, such as diet, lifestyle, and exposure to certain substances,
can also increase the risk. Specific genetic mutations, such as those in the APC
gene, are strongly associated with the development of colon cancer.

SYMPTOMS OF COLON CANCER CAN VARY DEPENDING ON THE SIZE AND

LOCATION OF THE TUMOR.

Common signs and symptoms include:

1. Changes in bowel habits, such as persistent diarrhea or constipation, or a

change in the consistency of your stool.

2. Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool.

3. Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas, or pain.

4. A feeling that your bowel doesn't empty completely.

5. Weakness or fatigue.

6. Unexplained weight loss.

It's important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other, less
serious conditions. However, if you experience any of these symptoms, it's crucial
to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

RISK FACTORS OF CANCER OF THE COLON

Several factors can increase the risk of developing colon cancer:

1. Age: The risk increases with age, with most cases diagnosed in people over 50.

2. Family history: Having a family history of colon cancer or polyps increases the
risk.

3. Personal history: Individuals with a history of colon polyps, inflammatory bowel

disease (such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis), or previous colon cancer are
at higher risk.

4. Diet: A diet high in red and processed meats and low in fruits, vegetables, and
whole grains may increase the risk.

5. Lifestyle: Obesity, physical inactivity, smoking, and excessive alcohol

consumption are associated with an increased risk.

6. Race/Ethnicity: African Americans have a higher incidence of colon cancer

compared to other racial groups.

7. Certain genetic conditions: Inherited syndromes such as Lynch syndrome

(hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer) and familial adenomatous polyposis
(FAP) significantly increase the risk.

PREVENTION OF CANCER OF THE COLON

Several strategies can help reduce the risk of colon cancer:

1. Screening: Regular screening, such as colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, or stool-
based tests, can detect precancerous polyps and early-stage cancer, allowing for
timely intervention.

2. Diet: Following a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and
limiting red and processed meats, can reduce the risk.

3. Lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity,

avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption are beneficial.

4. Medications: In some cases, medications like aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-

inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may reduce the risk, but should be discussed with a
healthcare provider due to potential side effects.

DIAGNOSIS OF CANCER OF THE COLON

Diagnosis of colon cancer typically involves a combination of methods:

1. Medical history and physical exam: A healthcare provider will ask about your
medical history, family history, and symptoms, and perform a physical exam.

2. Screening tests: These may include colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, or stool-based

tests (such as fecal occult blood test - FOBT, fecal immunochemical test - FIT, or
stool DNA test).

3. Colonoscopy: This procedure involves inserting a long, flexible tube with a

camera (colonoscope) into the rectum and colon to visualize the lining and
remove any polyps or suspicious areas for biopsy.

4. Biopsy: A small tissue sample is taken during colonoscopy or other procedures

and examined under a microscope to determine if cancer cells are present.
5. Imaging tests: These may include CT scans, MRI, or ultrasound to assess the
extent of the cancer and check for spread to other organs.

DIETARY MANAGEMENT OF CANCER OF THE COLON

Dietary management plays a crucial role in both preventing and managing colon
cancer:

1. High-fiber diet: Consuming a diet rich in fiber from fruits, vegetables, and whole
grains can help promote regular bowel movements and reduce the risk of colon
cancer.

2. Limit red and processed meats: Reducing the intake of red and processed
meats, which have been linked to an increased risk of colon cancer, is
recommended.

3. Increase fruit and vegetable intake: Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables
provides essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that may help protect
against cancer.

4. Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity is a risk factor for colon cancer, so

maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise is important.

5. Consider supplements: Some studies suggest that certain supplements, such as

calcium and vitamin D, may have a protective effect, but it's essential to consult
with a healthcare provider before taking any supplements.

OTHER MANAGEMENT OF CANCER OF THE COLON

Treatment for colon cancer depends on the stage of the cancer, the patient's
overall health, and other factors. Common treatment options include:
1. Surgery: Surgical removal of the cancerous tumor and surrounding tissues is
often the primary treatment for colon cancer

2. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells and may be used
before or after surgery, or as a primary treatment for advanced cancer

3. Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells
and may be used before or after surgery, or to relieve symptoms

4. Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy uses drugs that specifically target cancer
cells, often with fewer side effects than chemotherapy

5. Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy helps the body's immune system fight cancer

cells

6. Clinical trials: Participation in clinical trials may provide access to new and
innovative treatments

7. Follow-up care: Regular follow-up appointments, including physical exams,

blood tests, and imaging scans, are essential to monitor for recurrence and
manage any side effects of treatment.
REFERENCE

Colorectal Cancer. [National Cancer Institute]

Colorectal Cancer. [Mayo Clinic]

The Colon (Large Intestine). [Johns Hopkins Medicine]

Colorectal Cancer Causes. [American Cancer Society]

APC Gene. [MedlinePlus]

Colorectal Cancer Symptoms. [American Cancer Society]

Colorectal Cancer Risk Factors. [American Cancer Society]

Colorectal Cancer Prevention. [American Cancer Society]

Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis. [American Cancer Society]

Colorectal Cancer Diet. [American Cancer Society]

Colorectal Cancer Treatment. [American Cancer Society]