Colorectal Cancer: Insights, Global Impact, and Treatment with Zaltrap

Disease Insights:

Colorectal cancer starts in the colon or rectum, parts of the large intestine. When cancer cells spread from the colon or rectum to other parts of the body, it is called metastatic colorectal cancer. This can affect organs like the liver, lungs, or other distant sites. The process of spreading is called metastasis.

Metastatic colorectal cancer is more challenging to treat than cancer confined to the colon or rectum. This stage of cancer requires more intensive treatment options. Understanding metastatic colorectal cancer helps in early detection and improves treatment outcomes.

Global Impact:

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally.

In 2020, the global impact of colorectal cancer was profound, with over 1.9 million new cases reported and more than 930,000 lives lost to this disease. Geographically, the incidence rates were notably elevated in Europe and Australia/New Zealand, while Eastern Europe faced the highest mortality rates. Looking ahead to 2040, experts project a substantial rise in the burden of colorectal cancer, with an anticipated increase to 3.2 million new cases annually, an uptick of 63%.

Correspondingly, deaths from colorectal cancer are expected to climb to 1.6 million per year, marking a 73% surge compared to 2020 levels. These statistics underscore the urgent need for enhanced awareness, early detection, and advanced treatment options to mitigate the escalating impact of this disease worldwide.

The incidence of colorectal cancer varies by region. High-income countries like the United States, Canada, and countries in Europe have higher rates, likely due to lifestyle factors such as diet, physical inactivity, and obesity. However, as developing countries adopt more Western lifestyles, the incidence in these areas is also increasing.

Symptoms:

Colorectal cancer often starts without any noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they can vary depending on the cancer’s size and location in the large intestine. Common symptoms include:

• Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation
• Blood in the stool, which might make it appear dark or bright red
• Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas, or pain
• A feeling that the bowel doesn’t empty completely
• Weakness or fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss

When colorectal cancer metastasizes, symptoms can depend on the organs affected. For example, if it spreads to the liver, symptoms may include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), abdominal swelling, and pain in the upper right abdomen.

Diagnosis:
Diagnosing metastatic colorectal cancer involves several steps:

Medical History and Physical Exam: The doctor will ask about symptoms, and family history of cancer, and perform a physical exam.
Colonoscopy: This is a key diagnostic tool. During a colonoscopy, a long, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the rectum to examine the colon. If abnormal tissue is found, a biopsy (tissue sample) is taken.
Imaging Tests: To check if the cancer has spread, doctors may use imaging tests such as:

• CT Scan (Computed Tomography): Provides detailed images of the inside of the body.
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Uses magnets and radio waves to produce detailed images.
• PET Scan (Positron Emission Tomography): Shows areas of high metabolic activity, often where cancer cells are present.
• Chest X-ray: To check if cancer has spread to the lungs.

Blood Tests: These can include:
Complete Blood Count (CBC):

To check overall health and detect certain conditions.
Liver Function Tests: Since the liver is a common site for metastasis.
CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen) Test: Measures the level of CEA, a substance that can be higher in some people with colorectal cancer.

Treatment with Zaltrap:
Zaltrap (ziv-aflibercept) is a targeted therapy used in the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer. This medicinal product is supplied as injections: 100 mg/4 mL (25 mg/mL) and 200 mg/8 mL (25 mg/mL) solution in a single-dose vial for intravenous use. It works by inhibiting angiogenesis, the process by which tumors develop new blood vessels to supply themselves with nutrients and oxygen. By blocking this process, it helps starve the tumor and inhibit its growth.

Zaltrap 100 mg/4 mL (25 mg/mL) or 200 mg/8 mL is typically used in combination with chemotherapy for patients whose cancer has progressed after treatment with an oxaliplatin-containing regimen. The combination helps improve survival rates and manage symptoms more effectively.

Here’s How Zaltrap is Used in Treatment:

Mechanism: This therapeutic drug is a type of anti-angiogenic agent. It blocks the growth of new blood vessels by binding to proteins (VEGF-A, VEGF-B, and PlGF) that promote blood vessel growth. Without new blood vessels, tumors can’t grow and spread as effectively.

Administration: This medicinal product is given through an intravenous (IV) infusion. It is often used in combination with chemotherapy drugs like FOLFIRI (a regimen that includes irinotecan, leucovorin, and fluorouracil). The combination therapy helps to attack the cancer in different ways.

Dosage: The typical dosage is 4 mg per kilogram of body weight, given as an IV infusion over 1 hour. This treatment is usually repeated every 2 weeks, along with the chemotherapy regimen.

Side Effects: Like all medications, Zaltrap can cause side effects. Common side effects include fatigue, diarrhea, high blood pressure, mouth sores, loss of appetite, and weight loss. More serious side effects can include severe bleeding, gastrointestinal perforation (a hole in the stomach or intestines), and compromised wound healing. It’s important for patients to discuss these potential risks with their healthcare provider.

Effectiveness: Zaltrap has been shown to improve survival in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. Clinical trials have demonstrated that patients receiving Zaltrap in combination with chemotherapy lived longer than those receiving chemotherapy alone. This makes it a valuable option for patients who have not responded to other treatments.

Zaltrap represents a significant advancement in the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer, providing hope for patients facing this challenging diagnosis.

How Can I Access Zaltrap?

Access to effective cancer treatments like Zaltrap in India and other countries can be a challenge due to high costs and availability issues. The Indian Pharma Network (IPN) is a reliable supplier, facilitator, and importer of genuine and best-quality medicines including Zaltrap. TIP offers a solution for those in need of this therapeutic drug.

• Sourcing Genuine Zaltrap: IPN ensures that all medications, including Zaltrap injections, are sourced through legal and verified channels. This guarantees the authenticity and quality of the drug, providing peace of mind to patients and healthcare providers.
• Reasonable Pricing: One of the significant advantages of working with us is our ability to offer medicinal products at the most reasonable prices. With our extensive network and industry expertise, we can negotiate better rates, making expensive treatments more accessible.
• Reliability and Trust: IPN has built a reputation as a trustworthy and dependable supplier of critical medications. Our commitment to ethical practices and customer satisfaction has made us a preferred choice for sourcing pharmaceuticals, including life-saving cancer treatments.

Conclusion: Metastatic colorectal cancer requires comprehensive treatment strategies, and medications like Zaltrap play a crucial role in managing this aggressive disease. The Indian Pharma Network (IPN) stands out as a reliable partner in sourcing genuine Zaltrap at competitive prices. We ensure patients receive the best possible care at the most reasonable prices. If you or a loved one is facing metastatic colorectal cancer, and want to buy Zaltrap injection online, please reach out to IPN for assistance in obtaining this essential medication.

References:
https://www.zaltrap.com/
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/colorectal-cancer