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Understanding Colorectal Cancer
Bacterial gastroenteritis is a common yet preventable illness. By understanding its symptoms, causes, and treatment options, individuals can protect themselves and their loved ones from this condition.
Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in the U.S., affecting both the colon and rectum. At Gastrodoxs Endoscopy Center in Houston, TX, we're here to help you stay informed and prepared. Dr. Bharat Pothuri shares tips on how to catch it early, prevent it, and explore treatment options.
“Colorectal cancer is highly preventable and treatable when found early,” says Dr. Bharat Pothuri. “Our mission at Houston Gastroenterology is to support you every step of the way-from screening through recovery.”
In this guide, we'll cover:
Signs and symptoms to watch for
Risk factors you should know
How colorectal cancer starts
Screening methods that save lives
Cancer stages and what they mean
Common treatment options
Lifestyle tips to lower your risk
Survival rates and what to expect
We'll also answer some of the most common questions at the end. Let's get started.
1. What Is Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer starts in the inner lining of the colon or rectum. Cells in this lining may grow out of control and form tumors. Some stay put, but others can spread to nearby organs or lymph nodes. Since the disease often grows slowly, regular screening can catch it early-before it becomes a serious threat.
2. Early Signs and Symptoms
Knowing the warning signs can save lives. Here are the most common symptoms:
Changes in your bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or thinner stool)
Blood in your stool or rectal bleeding
Stomach pain, cramps, or gas that won't go away
Feeling like your bowel doesn't empty completely
Weight loss you can't explain
Feeling tired or weak due to anemia
“These symptoms can also happen with less serious issues,” says Dr. Pothuri. “Still, don't ignore them-talk to your doctor in Houston.”
3. What Increases Your Risk?
Some people are more likely to get colorectal cancer. You're at higher risk if you:
Are over 50 (but rates are rising in younger people too)
Have a family history of colorectal cancer
Have had colon polyps or diseases like Crohn's or colitis
Eat a lot of red or processed meats
Don't get enough exercise
Smoke or drink alcohol heavily
Have certain genetic conditions like Lynch syndrome or FAP
“If we know your risks, we can create a screening plan that works best for you,” explains Dr. Pothuri.
4. How Does It Develop?
Here's a simple look at how colorectal cancer forms:
Small cell clumps (polyps) grow on the colon wall
Some of these polyps (adenomas) can turn into cancer over time
Cancer spreads into the colon wall or nearby lymph nodes
If not treated, it can reach other organs like the liver or lungs
Removing polyps during a colonoscopy can stop cancer before it starts.
5. Screening Saves Lives
Screening finds polyps or cancer before symptoms appear. Here's a quick guide:
Test
How It Works
How Often
Pros
Cons
Colonoscopy
Camera checks the full colon, removes polyps
Every 10 years
Most thorough, removes polyps
Requires prep & sedation
FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test)
Tests stool for hidden blood
Every year
Easy, home test
Not as detailed
Stool DNA Test (e.g., Cologuard)
Looks for DNA and blood in stool
Every 3 years
High accuracy
Expensive, may need follow-up
CT Colonography
3D scan of the colon
Every 5 years
Non-invasive
Still needs prep, uses radiation
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
Checks lower colon only
Every 5 years
Less prep, no sedation
Doesn't check whole colon
“Discuss the best test for you with your Houston doctor,” says Dr. Pothuri.
6. Cancer Stages Explained
Knowing the stage helps doctors choose the right treatment:
Stage 0: Only in the lining-very early
Stage I: In the wall, but not beyond
Stage II: Through the wall, but not in lymph nodes
Stage III: Spread to nearby lymph nodes
Stage IV: Spread to distant organs like the liver or lungs
Each stage helps guide your treatment and recovery plan.
7. How Is It Treated?
Treatment depends on the stage and your health. Here are the common options:
Surgery:
Removes polyps or part of the colon
May involve creating a stoma (colostomy)
Chemotherapy:
Uses medicine to kill cancer cells
Often used after surgery
Radiation Therapy:
Uses high-energy rays to shrink or kill tumors
More common for rectal cancer
Targeted or Immunotherapy:
Attacks specific cancer cells or boosts your immune system
Usually for advanced stages
“We use a team-based approach in Houston,” says Dr. Pothuri. “Each plan is customized.”
8. Preventing Colorectal Cancer
You can lower your risk with these diet and lifestyle changes:
Eat More:
Fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains
Lean proteins like fish, chicken, tofu
Eat Less:
Red or processed meats
Sugary drinks
Other Tips:
Get 150 minutes of exercise each week
Maintain a healthy weight
Quit smoking and limit alcohol
Practice stress relief like yoga or walking
“Good habits can cut your risk by nearly 40%,” says Dr. Pothuri. “Houston's great weather is perfect for staying active!”
9. What's the Outlook?
Your chance of survival depends on when the cancer is found:
Stage I (Localized): About 91%
Stage II–III (Regional): About 72%
Stage IV (Distant spread): About 14%
Early detection makes a big difference. That's why screening is so important.
At Gastrodoxs, we care deeply about our Houston community. If you or a loved one have questions about colorectal cancer, screenings, or prevention, reach out to us. Let's take steps together-toward better health and early detection.
About the Author
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.