When malignant cells form in the tissue of the first 6 feet of the large intestine – colon cancer develops. Although it’s found more in persons over the age of 50, there is no clear rule as to who might get it. Genetics, a history of polyps, ulcerative colitis, Crohn disease, Lynch syndrome, Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, familial adenomatous polyposis or hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer could play a role. Suffering from any of these diseases doesn’t necessarily mean you will develop colon cancer - and not suffering from any of them won’t guarantee that you won’t.

Any bowel change that becomes a norm, the appearance of bright or dark blood, sudden diarrhoea or constipation, weight loss, vomiting, tiredness, a constant feeling of fullness, bloating, cramps, gas pains or narrow stools could all be an indication that something is wrong. Speak to your medical practitioner immediately if you feel uncertain of these changes!

To diagnose colon cancer could entail one or more of various tests. A faecal occult blood test, colonoscopy, digital rectal exam, barium enema, sigmoidoscopy, virtual colonoscopy, endoscopic ultrasound or a biopsy of the cells in the colon will be done. The test/s chosen for you will depend on the symptoms you’re experiencing, and often a second test will follow the first. Although most of these tests might seem awkward, they will be done in the most benevolent manner. The main concern is that you want these tests done a.s.a.p. in aid of your treatment.

Important to know is that (after surgery) it is widely suggested that you opt to participate in a clinical trial, as they often become the better standardised treatment. Ask your oncologist about this!! Surgery for colon cancer depends on the stage of the cancer. If the cancer is in an early stage, surgery might be laparoscopic. In more advanced cancer a ‘resection’ followed by an anastomosis (sewing together of healthy parts) and possible removal of lymph nodes will be done. Sometimes a resection and colostomy (external waste bag) will be performed. The colostomy can often be reversed after healing. When the whole lower colon needs to be removed the colostomy might remain permanent – but surgeons often try to avoid these by performing ‘sphincter-sparing surgery’ or an ‘Ileal pouch’ op. Radiofrequency ablation – electrodes that kills cancer cells are one of the latest treatments, as is cryosurgery – the freezing of carcinoma cells.

Chemotherapy to kill cancer cells, or stunt their dividing abilities will follow surgery. Radiation therapy might also be done after the chemotherapy sessions are complete. For advanced colon cancer, targeted drug therapy (a combination of bevacizumab, cetuximab and panitumumab) and/or biologic therapy (using the body’s immune system to combat the cancer) will be the option.

After surgery and during therapy your diet is important. You will find that in this time your diet will be quite different to the nutritional diets prescribed to other cancer patients. Important is that you need calories for weight, and protein for strength. More milk, cheese, cream, eggs, sauces, gravy, butter, margarine and oil is now required. Keep in mind that a single meal should not be too rich. Consume these foods in small amounts. Steer clear from foods high in fibre (including the fruit and vegetables that are the fibre kings) as this might cause diarrhoea. Choose your fruit and vegetables carefully, and rather opt to have them in a ‘smoothie’. Do not consume onions, cabbage, beer or fizzy drinks - to eliminate gasses that can be very painful. Banana milkshakes, peanut butter snacks and peeled and cooked fruit with cream are all popular choices after colon surgery.

After 6 weeks your condition should have improved, and your diet must alter. With colon cancer you must eat much less red meat, refined grains and sugar. This must now be your life rule! A good way of eating will be: 70% fruit and vegetables, 10% animal, 10% grain and 10% dairy. Liquidise carrot, spinach, beetroot, brussel sprouts, tomato and celery as they are excellent for your condition. Remember to ad turmeric (curcumin) to your diet, and as a colon-cancer-friendly beverage – go for lemongrass tea.

After surgery and during treatment, your emotional wellbeing is especially important. Although exercise is the ultimate ‘feel good’ method for many, you should obviously consider something else. The best for you will most definitely be Yoga or Tai Chi. Try them – you won’t be sorry!