This week I have been learning a little more about different types of cancer such as, breast cancer and prostate cancer. The common resolutions to cancer seems to be early detection and treatment during early stage. Oh colon, my goal is to keep you cancer free as long as I can. I looked up a few peer reviewed articles and also checked out the American Cancer Association website to learn more about the causes of colorectal cancer and physiological and biological changes of the body if you develop cancer.
The exact cause of most colon cancers is still unknown. Many research is undergoing to target this topic. However, we know for sure that the biological and physiological changes of the colon involves the appearance of an adenomatous polyp to develop into colorectal cancer (Bronner, et al., 2013). It is usually a long progression. Unfortunately, a family history of colorectal cancer is the most prominent factor of cancer growth without any signs or symptoms. Colon, I hate to remind you, but my grandma died of colorectal cancer before I was born. Therefore, you belong to the high risk population. It's all about my DNA, when it mutates, the genes (oncogenes) that were supposed to protect us from developing cancer would proliferate and won't stop growing. I can inherit the DNA mutation from my grandma, since it can pass from generation to generation.
Fortunately, only a small portion of colorectal cancers are caused by inherited gene mutations (American Cancer Association). Genetic testings can detect mutations associated with inherited genes. I either can inherit genes that cause multiple polyps to develop in you or cause DNA error. Most cases of colorectal cancer are caused by acquired genes mutations. A major gene that is involved in both types of genes mutation is called APC genes. However, the exact cause is unknown.
I cannot undertake the risk of ignoring the fact that you are at risk of developing cancer due to my genetic background. Although it is only a small chance, it cannot be overlooked. Early detection and early treatment is still my motto for you.
Yours sincerely,
Jumbo
Reference:
Bronner, K., Mesters, I., Weiss-Meilik, A., Geva, R., Rozner, G., Strul, H., . . . Kariv, R. (2013). Determinants of adherence to screening by colonoscopy in individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer. Patient Education and Counseling, 93(2), 272-281.
Do we know what causes colorectal cancer? (n.d.). Retrieved April 16, 2015, from http://www.cancer.org/cancer/colonandrectumcancer/detailedguide/colorectal-cancer-what-causes
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