Colon cancer is most closely associated with which of the following conditions?
A. Appendicitis
B. Hemorrhoids
C. Hiatal hernia
D. Ulcerative colitis
Correct Answer: D. Ulcerative colitis
Chronic ulcerative colitis, granulomas, and familial polyposis seem to increase a person’s chance of developing colon cancer. Having ulcerative colitis can increase the risk for colorectal cancer. Recent research shows that colorectal cancer rates are dropping among people with inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis. People with ulcerative colitis should receive regular screenings for colorectal cancer. The other conditions listed have no known effect on colon cancer risk.
Option A: Appendicitis can be secondary to cecal pathology (polyp or cancer). Increasing age is a risk factor for malignancy coexisting with appendicitis. There is an increased coexistence of cancer post-appendicectomy in patients aged 50-54 years. Patients aged 55 years or over who have undergone appendectomy should be offered colonoscopy to exclude coexistent cecal pathology.
Option B: Hemorrhoids don’t cause or increase the risk for colon or rectal cancer. However, the two conditions may be mistaken for one another because they can produce similar symptoms, such as rectal bleeding, itching, and pain.
Option C: Abdominal wall hernias may develop not because of cancer itself but due to its consequences, for example, increased intra-abdominal pressure secondary to obstructive colon cancer or a large pelvic tumor may cause a herniation.
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