Does Colon Cancer Show Up in Routine Blood Work?
Introduction
Are you curious about routine blood work’s role in detecting colon cancer? Wondering if a simple blood test could potentially save your life? In this blog, we’ll delve into the fascinating world of how does colon cancer show up in routine blood work and helps catch colon cancer at an early stage. Let’s uncover the truth behind this vital screening tool and empower you with the knowledge to take charge of your health.
Understanding Colon Cancer and its Prevalence
Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that starts in the large intestine (colon) or the rectum. It occurs when abnormal cells grow out of control and form tumors in these areas. This can lead to serious health complications if left untreated.
According to the American Cancer Society, colon cancer is the third most common type of cancer diagnosed in both men and women, excluding skin cancers. It is estimated that there will be around 149,500 new cases of colorectal cancer diagnosed and more than 52,000 deaths from this disease in 2021 alone.
The prevalence of colon cancer varies across different regions and populations. It is more common in developed countries than in developing countries. Incidence rates are highest in Australia/New Zealand and Europe and lowest in Africa and Asia.
Several factors contribute to the development of colon cancer including age, family history, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a diet high in red meat and processed foods, a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption. Age plays a significant role in the risk of developing colon cancer with about 91% of cases occurring in individuals aged 50 years or older. Family history also plays a crucial role as people with a first-degree relative (parent or sibling) who has had colon cancer have a higher risk for developing this disease themselves.
Individuals with chronic inflammation disorders such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease are also at an increased risk for developing colon cancer due to ongoing inflammation damaging cells lining the digestive tract over time. Dietary habits have long been associated with increased risk for many types of cancers including colon cancer. A diet high in red meat (beef, pork or lamb) and processed foods has been linked to an increased risk whereas diets rich in fruits and vegetables have shown potential protective effects against this type of cancer.
Sedentary lifestyle choices such as lack of regular exercise and prolonged sitting have also been associated with increased risk for colon cancer. This may be because physical activity helps regulate hormones and improve digestion, both of which can play a role in preventing cancer.
Understanding Routine Blood Work and its Purpose
Routine blood work, a complete blood count (CBC) or a basic metabolic panel (BMP), is a standard medical test used to assess an individual’s overall health and detect any underlying medical conditions. This type of blood work involves taking a small blood sample from the patient and analyzing it for various components such as red and white blood cells, platelets, electrolytes, and other important substances.
Routine blood work provides doctors with valuable information about a person’s health. It can be an initial screening tool to identify potential issues requiring further investigation or treatment. It can also be used to monitor chronic conditions and track the effectiveness of certain treatments.
One key benefit of routine blood work is its ability to detect early warning signs of serious health problems before they become more advanced. For example, in the case of colon cancer, routine blood work may reveal abnormalities in certain types of white blood cells called neutrophils and lymphocytes. These changes could indicate inflammation or infection in the body, which may be associated with colon cancer.
In addition to screening for potential health concerns, routine blood work can give doctors an insight into an individual’s overall well-being. Abnormal levels in specific components like hemoglobin and hematocrit may indicate anemia or other issues related to nutrition or hydration status. Likewise, elevated liver enzymes may suggest liver disease or damage.
Moreover, routine blood work can help healthcare providers make informed decisions about medications and treatments by revealing how well vital organs like the kidneys and liver function. For instance, if there are abnormalities in kidney function tests such as creatinine and BUN (blood urea nitrogen), it could signal kidney disease, which must be addressed before starting certain medications.
Does Colon Cancer Show Up in Routine Blood Work?
The answer is simply, No. Routine blood work, a complete blood count (CBC), is a standard test performed during yearly check-ups and routine physical exams. This test measures the levels of different types of cells in your blood, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It can also provide information about the health of your organs and overall well-being. But can this simple test detect colon cancer? Let’s explore this question further.
Unfortunately, routine blood work cannot directly detect colon cancer. However, it can provide valuable information that could alert your doctor to potential issues and prompt further testing. For example, anemia or low red blood cell counts may indicate internal bleeding in the digestive tract, which could be a sign of colon cancer. Additionally, elevated levels of certain liver enzymes or proteins may indicate abnormal growth in the colon.
One specific marker studied for its potential role in detecting colon cancer through routine blood work is carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA). CEA is a protein typically produced by developing fetuses but can also be found in small amounts in healthy adults. However, high levels of CEA have been linked to various types of cancers, including colorectal cancer. While CEA is not routinely measured on CBC tests unless specifically requested by a doctor, some studies have suggested that elevated levels may warrant further investigation for colon cancer.
It’s important to note that while these markers on routine blood work may raise suspicion for colon cancer and prompt additional testing, they are not definitive indicators. Other factors such as diet and medication use can also affect these markers’ levels and lead to false positives or negatives. Therefore it’s crucial not to rely solely on routine blood work for detecting colon cancer.
If you are concerned about your risk for colon cancer or have symptoms such as changes in bowel habits or unexplained weight loss, it’s essential to speak with your doctor. They can determine if additional testing, such as a colonoscopy or stool sample, is necessary to evaluate your risk for colon cancer accurately.
Routine blood work cannot directly detect colon cancer. Still, it can provide valuable information that may warrant further testing and evaluation. It’s crucial to stay vigilant about your health and have open communication with your doctor regarding any concerns or symptoms you may have related to colon cancer. Remember, early detection is key in successfully treating and managing this disease.
Other Diagnostic Tests for Colon Cancer Detection
While routine blood work can be a helpful tool in detecting colon cancer, it is not the only option available. Other diagnostic tests may also be used to detect this type of cancer.
Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy is considered the gold standard for colon cancer screening and detection. During this procedure, a flexible tube with a camera attached (colonoscope) is inserted into the rectum and guided through the entire length of the colon. The camera allows the doctor to examine the colon’s lining for abnormalities like polyps or tumors. If polyps are found, they can be removed during the procedure and sent for biopsy to determine if they are cancerous.
Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT)
FOBT is a noninvasive screening test that checks for hidden (occult) blood in the stool, which can be a sign of colon cancer. It involves collecting stool samples at home and sending them to a laboratory for analysis. The test detects tiny amounts of blood that may not be visible to the naked eye. If blood is detected, further diagnostic testing, such as a colonoscopy, may be recommended to determine the cause.
Flexible sigmoidoscopy
Similar to a colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy is a procedure that examines the lower part of the colon (sigmoid colon) and rectum using a flexible tube with a camera. Unlike a colonoscopy examining the entire colon, flexible sigmoidoscopy only visualizes the lower portion. While it may not detect abnormalities in the upper colon, it can still identify polyps and other signs of cancer in the sigmoid colon and rectum.
Virtual Colonoscopy
 Virtual colonoscopy, or CT colonography, uses computed tomography (CT) imaging to create detailed, three-dimensional images of the colon and rectum. Unlike traditional colonoscopy, it does not require the insertion of a scope into the colon. Instead, air or carbon dioxide is pumped into the colon to expand it, and CT scans are taken. Virtual colonoscopy is less invasive than traditional colonoscopy but may require bowel preparation.
Stool DNA testing
Stool DNA testing, also known as multitargeted stool DNA testing or stool DNA analysis, is a newer screening method for colon cancer. It detects specific DNA changes associated with colon cancer cells shed into the stool. Patients collect stool samples at home and send them to a laboratory for analysis. Stool DNA testing is more sensitive than traditional FOBT and may help detect cancer at an early stage. However, it is more expensive and may not be covered by insurance.
It’s important to note that while these tests can help detect potential cases of colon cancer, they cannot provide an official diagnosis on their own. For confirmation, a biopsy will still need to be performed on any suspicious areas found during these procedures.
Conclusion
Incorporating routine blood work into your healthcare regimen is crucial for preventing and detecting early signs of colon cancer. It provides valuable information about your overall health and allows for early intervention if abnormalities are detected. Remember to discuss with your healthcare provider the frequency of routine blood work that is recommended for you based on your age, lifestyle, and family medical history. Don’t underestimate the power of routine blood work in protecting yourself against colon cancer.
Recommended Articles:
Health Sources:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/blood-test-for-colon-cancer
https://www.healthline.com/health-news/experimental-blood-test-may-help-detect-colon-cancer-earlier
https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/bowel-cancer/getting-diagnosed/tests-bowel-cancer
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7564785/
