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Colorectal Cancer (Bowel Cancer)

The importance of early screening for cancers of the colon and rectum.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Onkoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Colorectal Cancer (Bowel Cancer)?

Colorectal cancer is a malignant tumour arising from cells of the colon (large bowel) or rectum. The vast majority develop from benign polyps that gradually transform into cancer over 10–15 years; this slow timeline explains why regular screening is so important.

It is the third most common cancer worldwide and the second leading cause of cancer death. Five-year survival exceeds 90% when the disease is caught early but falls sharply once distant metastases develop. Colonoscopy is both diagnostic and preventive — polyps can be removed during the same procedure.

Regular colonoscopic screening is recommended from age 50 (earlier in those with a family history). Healthy diet, regular physical activity and avoiding smoking significantly reduce risk.

Symptoms

Blood in the stool or dark-coloured stool
Persistent change in bowel habit (diarrhoea/constipation)
Sense of incomplete evacuation
Abdominal pain, cramping or bloating
Unexplained weight loss
Persistent fatigue and weakness (from iron-deficiency anaemia)
Narrow-calibre stool

Risk Factors

Age 50 or over
Family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
Personal history of polyps or colorectal cancer
Chronic inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's, ulcerative colitis)
High intake of red and processed meat, low-fibre diet
Obesity, inactivity and smoking
Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or Lynch syndrome

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When you see blood in the stool or black, tar-like stool
  • When changes in bowel habit persist for several weeks
  • From age 50 for routine colonoscopy
  • Earlier than 40 if there is a family history of colorectal cancer
  • When abdominal pain occurs together with weight loss

Treatment Methods

01
Surgical resection: removal of the tumour with surrounding lymph nodes
02
Laparoscopic (keyhole) or robotic surgical techniques
03
Adjuvant chemotherapy: after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence
04
Radiotherapy: especially in rectal cancer, neoadjuvantly or adjuvantly
05
Targeted therapies: anti-EGFR antibodies in KRAS wild-type tumours; anti-VEGF agents
06
Immunotherapy: checkpoint inhibitors in MSI-H/dMMR tumours

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Onkoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Let us help you

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.