MemorialCare Cancer Institute at:
Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow in the lining of the colon or rectum located at the end of the digestive system. Colorectal cancer grows slowly over time and mostly begins as a polyp that is non-cancerous (benign). An uncommon type of polyp called adenoma can become cancerous (malignant).
Symptoms
Colorectal cancer symptoms do not usually occur in the early stages of cancer. Some symptoms during late stages may include:- Diarrhea or constipation.
- Feeling that your bowel does not empty completely.
- Blood (dark spots) in your stool.
- Gas pains or cramps, or feeling full or bloated.
- Weight loss.
- Fatigue.
- Nausea or vomiting.
Causes & Prevention
The causes of colorectal cancer are unknown. Some risk factors such as smoking and diet can be controlled to help prevent colorectal cancer. It’s also important to have a regular screening for colorectal cancer to detect polyps or growths at early stages. Understanding your genetic make-up with genetic counseling can help determine your risk for colorectal cancer.Colorectal cancer screening recommendations
- Digital rectal exam – Annually in men and women starting at age 50.
- Colonoscopy – Every 10 years for men and women starting at age 50.
- or Sigmoidoscopy – Every five years for men and women, starting at 50
Risk Factors
You are at a greater risk for colorectal cancer risk if you:- Are over the age of 50.
- Have a colorectal polyp.
- Have a family history of colorectal cancer.
- Have a personal history of colorectal cancer.
- Have a high fat diet.
- Smoke or are exposed to smoke.
- Have a history of bowel disease (ulcerative colitis or crohn’s disease – an inflammation of the colon)
Screening Recommendations
Women |
| 50 years of age: |
| Digital rectal exam – Annually. Colonoscopy – Every 10 years. or Sigmoidoscopy – Every five years. |
Men |
| 50 years of age: |
| Digital rectal exam – Annually. Colonoscopy – Every 10 years. or Sigmoidoscopy – Every five years. |
Diagnosis
Regular colorectal screenings such as digital rectal exams, virtual colonoscopy, colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy allow physicians to view the colon area to detect polyps. If polyps, that should be removed, are found, this is usually performed during a colonoscopy. A biopsy and a stool blood test may be performed to detect colorectal cancer.
Staging
If cancer is diagnosed and before treatment begins, additional tests are performed to determine the stage of the cancer and to see if it has spread to other parts of the body.
Treatments
MemorialCare’s experienced team of oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists and surgeons conduct roundtable discussions (tumor boards) of newly diagnosed patients to make recommendations for the best course of treatment.
