Large intestine
The large intestine is the final part of the digestive tube. It measures 1.5 meters and is much shorter than the small intestine. It is lined with intestinal cells called enterocytes, which frequently regenerate and have an average lifespan of only 1–3 days.
What can cause diseases in the intestines?
- Infectious inflammation: most commonly caused by Campylobacter, Salmonella, or rotaviruses.
- Autoimmune inflammation (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis).
- Colorectal cancer.
Colorectal cancer itself represents uncontrolled cell growth in the lining of the intestine, forming a malignant tumor.
Colon cancer is the 3rd most common type of cancer in the Czech Republic. Only 35 % of people above 50 go to regular colon cancer screenings.
Symptoms of colorectal cancer
It depends on the location of the tumor in the intestine.
- If it is in the ascending colon, on your right side, the tumor is more likely to bleed. The blood is often hidden, meaning it is not visible to the naked eye but can be detected through a special test. Other symptoms of a tumor in the ascending colon may include abdominal pain or weight loss.
- Tumors in the descending colon are more likely to block the intestine. Therefore, they can cause constipation, diarrhea, or alternation between the two, as well as increased gas.
How can I prevent colorectal cancer?
- The foundation is a check-up with your general practitioner once every 2 years.
- From the age of 50, you can choose between a FOBT once a year or a screening colonoscopy once every 10 years.
- Limit the consumption of red meat and alcohol.
- Eat plenty of vegetables and fruits.
- Remember to reduce smoking and engage in regular physical activity.
After the age of 50, visit your general practitioner who will perform FOBT - fecal occult blood test. Additionally, you can now undergo a colonoscopy starting from the age of 50.
Frequently asked questions
What are the risk factors for colorectal cancer?
- Age over 50.
- Genetics - family history of colorectal cancer.
- Unhealthy diet - especially red meat, processed meats, and fatty foods.
- Lack of fiber, which helps cleanse the intestines from harmful substances. Excellent sources of fiber include fruits and vegetables.
- Non-specific inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease.
- Smoking increases the risk of developing colorectal cancer by up to 20%.
- Obesity.
- Alcohol consumption.
What is a colonoscopy good for? Isn't FOBT enough?
FOBT only detects whether there is any 'invisible' bleeding in the stool. At that moment, the doctor doesn't know if the bleeding is caused by an ulcer on the mucous membrane, a bacterial infection, or a tumor. With the insertion of a tube with a camera during a colonoscopy, the doctor can better examine the finding, see its extent, and take samples for further examination. Moreover, some colorectal tumors bleed only intermittently, which is another reason why FOBT might not detect them.
How many people are diagnosed with colorectal cancer each year?
In the Czech Republic, over 7,000 people are diagnosed with colorectal cancer annually, making it the third most common type of cancer in both men and women.
