Researchers Assess Risk Factors, Possible Treatments for Colon Cancer

Colon, bowel, and colorectal cancers rank among the most deadly forms of the disease. In the United States, colon cancer is the third most-common type of cancer, and it ranks second on the list of cancer-related deaths. Each year, colon cancer is responsible for nearly 700,000 deaths worldwide -- nearly 150,000 in the United States alone.

One reason why colon cancer is responsible for so many deaths each year is because it is often diagnosed only when the disease has reached an advanced stage. There are few readily detectable outward symptoms of colon cancer, which makes early detection particularly challenging. As with all forms of cancer, the earlier a positive diagnosis can be made, the better the likelihood for recovery and remission.

In order to reverse the high rate of mortality associated with colon cancer, researchers around the world are working on devising methods of prevention, early detection, and treatment. This week, we'll review some of the key research findings related to colon cancer that have emerged from the scientific literature.

Genetic Marker Associated with Early-Onset Colon Cancer Identified

As scientists have progressed in their quest to decode and classify the human genome in recent years, the genetic risks associated with many different types of cancer have begun to be better understood. The findings of one recently published study pinpointed a unique genetic sign associated with a type of colon cancer that typically strikes adults under the age of 50.

Researchers at the Mayo Clinic focused on a specific cellular structure called telomeres. These function as the "lids" on the end of chromosomes that cap each cell's genetic material. In people who were diagnosed with colon cancer before the age of 50, it was found that the telomeres were often much smaller and shorter than normal.

The researchers cautioned that further tests are needed to confirm these findings. However, if found to be valid, the abnormal telomere structure linked with early-onset colon cancer could prove to be helpful in the development of future treatments for this form of the disease. In fact, techniques are currently being developed that could actually lengthen or repair the telomeres of individuals with this genetic defect.

Aspirin May Protect Against Colon Cancer

The latest breakthrough in colon cancer prevention comes from an unexpected source: the humble aspirin. Originally developed as a pain relief medication, aspirin is now being credited with helping to prevent an array of illnesses. Researchers at the Harvard School of Medicine found that the same property that lends aspirin its anti-inflammatory power can also help protect against the development of some forms of colorectal cancer.

According to the scientists, colon cancer cells contain an abnormally large amount of the enzyme known as COX-2. Aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs possess a special property that allows them to inhibit the action of the COX-2 enzyme. In one segment of the study, participants who followed a preventive course of daily aspirin consumption had 36% less chance of developing the type of colon cancer that is characterized by high COX-2 levels.

Although more research is necessary before aspirin can be accepted as a part of a preventive protocol for those at high risk for colon cancer, the researchers assert that this finding represents a significant step forward in the fight to prevent this often-deadly disease.

Hormone Deficiency Could Play a Role in Colon Cancer, Scientists Say

Although hormones play a major role in helping the human body function properly, these chemical compounds are rarely associated with cancer. However, a recent study conducted by the Kimmel Cancer Center in Philadelphia indicates that key deficits in the hormones guanylin and uroguanylin may play a role in sparking cancerous cell growth in the colon.

These substances typically protect against the kind of abnormal cell growth that result in polyps and tumors. However, when colon cancer begins to develop, they are somehow edged out of the colon and can no longer be detected.

With further investigation, this deficiency may be able to be treated with a type of hormone replacement therapy, preventing the development of tumors in high-risk populations. However, the precise mechanisms by which these hormones influence cell growth will have to be clarified before viable treatments can be developed.

If you're concerned about managing your risk for developing colon cancer, your doctor can help you develop a personalized prevention plan based on your unique health history and profile. Please check back each week for more of the health science news you need!