Colorectal cancer, which includes cancers of the colon and rectum, is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. It develops when genetic mutations and environmental factors such as diet, smoking, alcohol use, obesity, or chronic inflammation of the bowel lead to the formation of polyps. Over time, some polyps may become cancerous.
A helpful analogy is to imagine rust forming on a pipe. At first, the damage is minor, but if ignored, corrosion worsens and weakens the structure. Similarly, untreated polyps may gradually progress into cancer.
How symptoms differ from hemorrhoids
- Colorectal cancer often causes unexplained weight loss, anemia, or persistent bowel habit changes
- Hemorrhoids usually cause pain, itching, or bright red blood during bowel movements
- Hemorrhoids themselves are not cancer, but chronic rectal bleeding attributed to them can mask or signal colorectal cancer, making thorough evaluation essential
Warning signs include:
- Persistent changes in bowel habits
- Blood in the stool
- Abdominal pain or bloating
- Unexplained weight loss
- Constant fatigue
In many cases, symptoms do not appear until later stages, underscoring the importance of colonoscopy screening.
Standard colorectal cancer treatments
- Surgery – removal of tumors or polyps; the mainstay for early stages
- Chemotherapy – effective for colorectal cancer. IV drugs include Adrucil (5-fluorouracil), Eloxatin (oxaliplatin), Camptosar (irinotecan); oral drug Xeloda (capecitabine)
- Targeted therapies – IV options such as Avastin (bevacizumab) and Erbitux (cetuximab)
- Immunotherapy – Keytruda (pembrolizumab) for tumors with genetic markers (e.g., MSI-H)
- Radiation therapy – mainly for rectal cancers, especially locally advanced tumors before or after surgery to reduce recurrence
Relapse risk:
- Colorectal cancer may recur in the liver or lungs
- Regular imaging and blood tests are critical after initial treatment
Supportive colorectal cancer medications
- Zofran (ondansetron) – oral/IV; controls nausea
- Compazine (prochlorperazine) – oral/IV; additional nausea relief
- Neulasta (pegfilgrastim) – injection; protects white blood cells
- Lomotil (diphenoxylate/atropine) – oral; manages diarrhea
- Imodium (loperamide) – oral; commonly used for chemo-related diarrhea
- Oxycodone or morphine – oral/IV; for pain control
- Nutritional supplements for weight maintenance
Lifestyle choices in prevention and recovery
- High-fiber diet with vegetables, fruits, and whole grains
- Regular physical activity
- Limiting alcohol and quitting smoking
- Managing stress and getting proper rest
Although colorectal cancer is serious, outcomes have improved significantly thanks to early detection and modern therapies. Many patients live long and active lives after diagnosis. Specialty pharmacies like RxVitaPharm help by ensuring access to essential medications, personalized guidance, and continuous support during treatment and recovery.