Bowel cancer and colon cancer are common cancers that affect the digestive system. While these terms are mostly used interchangeably, they have subtle differences. Both cancers can seriously impact your health, but the good news is that if detected early, they are often treatable. Understanding the distinctions between bowel cancer and colon cancer helps you recognize potential symptoms, reduce your risk, and know when to seek medical advice.

By learning about their causes, risk factors, and prevention strategies, you can protect your health and encourage others to do the same. Early detection can save lives, so let’s explore the important information you need to stay safe and healthy.

Differences Between Bowel Cancer and Colon Cancer

Bowel Cancer: Bowel cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the large intestine, which includes the rectum and colon. The large intestine processes food after digestion by absorbing water and nutrients while eliminating waste. If cells in the bowel grow uncontrollably, they can form a tumor that may spread to other parts of the body if left untreated.

Symptoms of Bowel Cancer:

• Blood in your stools (rectal bleeding)
• Changes in bowel habits
• Unexplained weight loss
• Abdominal discomfort or pain
• Feeling tired or weak
• A sensation that you haven’t fully emptied your bowels

Colon Cancer: Colon cancer starts specifically in the colon, the longest part of the large intestine. The colon’s primary role is to absorb water and nutrients from food. Colon cancer is a type of bowel cancer, but the term “colon cancer” refers specifically to cancer within the colon.

Symptoms of Colon Cancer:

• Changes in bowel habits
• Feeling tired or weak
• Blood in your stools (rectal bleeding)
• Stomach pain or cramps
• Sudden weight loss
• Incomplete bowel movements

Treatment Options for Bowel and Colon Cancer

Treatment for bowel and colon cancer depends on the stage and location of the cancer:

• Surgery: Surgeons remove the tumor and, in some cases, nearby tissues to prevent the cancer from spreading.
• Chemotherapy: Doctors use drugs to kill cancer cells, often after surgery, to prevent the cancer from returning.
• Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays help destroy cancer cells.
• Targeted Therapy: This treatment targets specific proteins that cancer cells use to grow, offering a more precise approach.

Preventive Measures for Bowel and Colon Cancer

You can take steps to lower your risk:

• Eat a healthy diet: Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit red meat and avoid processed meats like sausages and bacon.
• Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity a day to improve overall health and energy.
• Quit smoking and limit alcohol: Smoking damages your body and increases cancer risk. Excessive alcohol consumption also raises the chances of cancer.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity can elevate cancer risk. Focus on having healthy eating and staying active.
• Get screened: Regular screenings, such as colonoscopies, can detect cancer early or find pre-cancerous growths (polyps) before they become dangerous.

Risk Factors for Colon and Bowel Cancer

Certain factors increase the risk of developing bowel or colon cancer:

Age: People over 50 are at higher risk.
Family history: Having a close family member who has had bowel or colon cancer increases your risk.
Diet: A diet high in red meat and processed foods, along with low fiber intake, rises your risk.
Lifestyle choices: Smoking, heavy alcohol use, and lack of exercise are some of the factors for increasing cancer risk.
Health conditions: Inflammatory bowel diseases, like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, increase the chances of developing cancer.

Why Choose India for Bowel Cancer and Colon Cancer Treatment?

India offers several advantages for bowel and colon cancer treatment:

1. Top-Notch Medical Facilities: India is home to world-class cancer centers equipped with cutting-edge technology and modern laboratories.
2. Expert Doctors: India boasts highly skillful and notorious cancer specialists with extensive expertise.
3. Affordable Treatment: Treatment for bowel and colon cancer in India is more cost-effective compared to other countries, without compromising on quality.
4. Comprehensive Services: Indian cancer hospitals offer a wide range of treatments, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
5. Supportive Environment: Hospitals in India provide personal care and counseling to ensure a comfortable experience for patients.

Best hospitals for bowel and colon cancer treatments in India

• Fortis Hospital, Bangalore
• MGM Healthcare, Chennai
• Venkateshwar Hospital, New Delhi
• Batra Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Delhi
• BLK Super Specialty Hospital, Delhi
• Max Super Specialty Hospital, Delhi
• Medanta the Medicity, Gurgaon
• Care Institute of Medical Sciences, Ahmedabad
• Gleneagles Global Hospital, Hyderabad
• Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai

Conclusion:

Both Bowel cancer and colon cancer are serious diseases, but they are preventable and treatable, especially when they are diagnosed early. By understanding the differences between the two, recognizing the symptoms and opting for a healthy lifestyle choices, you can lower your risk. Your healthy life is your choice so make it better today to be healthy tomorrow.

FAQs on Bowel Cancer vs Colon Cancer

1. Are bowel cancer and colon cancer the same?

Ans- Colon cancer is a type of bowel cancer, but bowel cancer can also include rectal cancer (Cancer in the rectum).

2. Can bowel or colon cancer be treated?

Ans- Yes, treatment depends on the stage of the cancer and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and targeted therapies.

3. What is the survival rate for bowel and colon cancer?

Ans- Early detection improves survival rates significantly. Many people diagnosed early can be cured.

4. When should I see a doctor?

Ans- If you notice blood in your stool, extreme weight loss, or a persistent change in bowel habits, consult a doctor immediately.

5. How do I book an appointment for a bowel and colon cancer treatment?

Ans- You can book an appointment by calling the healthcare service provider directly, visiting their website or contacting them through online platforms. 

Choose GoMedii as your treatment partner to get the best treatment at an affordable cost, and through a hustle-free process. You can simply Drop a query to experience revolutionized treatment services via Whatsapp (+91 9311101477) or email us at connect@gomedii.com our team will contact you as soon as possible. To make things easier for you, just download our app from your Google Play or app store!