The colon, also known as the large intestine, is an important part of the digestive and waste elimination systems. It is a tubular organ approximately 1.5 meters long that extends from the end of the small intestine to the anus. The final portion of the large intestine, which connects directly to the anus, is called the rectum.

The colon plays several important roles, including absorbing water, salts, and nutrients from digested food and eliminating solid waste from the body.

Colorectal cancer develops when abnormal cells begin to grow in the lining of the colon or rectum. These changes may initially appear as polyps or ulcerative lesions. Over time, some abnormal growths can develop into malignant tumors.

Colorectal cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers worldwide.

According to data from the Saudi Cancer Registry (2024), approximately 3,000 new cases of colorectal cancer are diagnosed annually in Saudi Arabia. The disease affects both men and women at comparable rates, although incidence is slightly higher among men. The risk of developing colorectal cancer also increases with age, making it one of the most prevalent cancers in the Kingdom.

Global Cancer Observer (2024) indicates nearly one million new cases of colon cancer and approximately 700,000 new cases of rectal cancer are diagnosed each year, worldwide. Colorectal cancer remains one of the leading cancer types globally. Encouragingly, treatment outcomes are highly favorable when the disease is detected and managed at an early stage.

Cancer is a complex disease that can develop as a result of multiple interacting factors. In many cases, it is not possible to identify a single direct cause. The body's immune system continually detects and eliminates abnormal cells, helping prevent them from developing into cancer. However, aging and prolonged exposure to certain harmful factors may impair these natural defense mechanisms and increase the likelihood of cancer developing.

Reducing exposure to known risk factors can help lower the risk of cancer. Research has identified several lifestyle-related factors associated with an increased risk, particularly preventable factors such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and obesity. In contrast, healthy behaviors, including regular physical activity and a balanced diet, can help reduce cancer risk.

• Advancing age.
• A family history of colorectal cancer.
• Inherited genetic predisposition.
• Alcohol consumption.
• Tobacco use.
• Obesity.
• Physical inactivity.
• An unhealthy diet, particularly one high in red and processed meat and fats and low in fruits, vegetables, and dietary fiber.

Several screening methods can help detect colorectal cancer before symptoms develop. These include stool-based tests that detect blood or abnormal DNA, colonoscopy, which allows direct examination of the colon and removal of precancerous polyps, and CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy), which uses advanced imaging to examine the colon and rectum.

Regular screening can help detect precancerous changes or colorectal cancer at an earlier stage, when treatment may be more effective.

• Blood in the stool.
• Persistent changes in bowel habits.
• A sensation of incomplete bowel emptying.
• cChanges in stool shape or appearance.
• Unexplained weight loss.

• Surgery to remove the tumor, which may sometimes require the creation of a temporary or permanent stoma.
• Chemotherapy.
• Radiation therapy, particularly for rectal cancer.
• Immunotherapy and targeted therapies.

• Most patients can continue to enjoy fulfilling personal, social, and religious lives when they understand their condition and adopt effective coping strategies.
• Open communication with healthcare professionals regarding the disease and potential treatment side effects can facilitate adaptation and improve quality of life.
• Ongoing medical care and regular follow-up during and after treatment play a vital role in reducing the risk of recurrence and managing any long-term treatment-related effects.
• Maintaining a healthy diet and engaging in regular physical activity contribute significantly to overall health and well-being.
• Psychological resilience and emotional support can positively influence recovery, enhance mood, and help patients overcome feelings of isolation, anxiety, sadness, stress, and frustration.
• Accepting body changes associated with treatment can promote better adjustment and long-term coping.

The information presented above is intended solely for general health education purposes. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice from the treating physician and should not be used for purposes other than public health education.

1. National Cancer Institute. Colon Cancer Treatment (PDQ®) - Patient Version.
2. Saudi Health Council. (2024). Saudi Cancer Registry. Saudi Health Council Electronic Portal.
3. International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN).