Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the United States and a leading cause of death from cancer. In fact, it’s estimated that nearly 130,000 new cases of colorectal cancer are diagnosed each year. Colorectal cancer affects people in all racial and ethnic groups and is most often found in people age 45 and older.

Preventative screenings for colorectal cancer saves lives.

Regular preventive screenings are one of the most powerful tools you have available to you. If everyone age 45 and older were screened regularly, 6 out of 10 deaths from colorectal cancer could be prevented.

Colonoscopies and sigmoidoscopies are part of the preventive screening process for colorectal cancer.

• A colonoscopy is used to study the entire colon and rectum for polyps, an early sign of cancer.
• Sigmoidoscopies are used to study the lower colon and rectum.
• Stool-based tests are used to check the stool (feces) for signs of colon or rectal cancer, such as small amounts of blood.

Who should get screened for colon cancer?

At SSM Health, we recommend regular colon cancer screenings for those who are:

• Age 45 and older
• Have a family history of colorectal cancer

We recommend regular screenings be performed once every five to ten years unless risk factors warrant more frequent screenings.

What is colorectal cancer?

Colorectal cancer occurs when normal cells found in the lining of the rectum or colon grow at an abnormal rate. Traditionally, this cell growth occurs over a number of years, but in some hereditary cases the disease can develop within months. Colorectal cancer is linked to both genetics and environmental factors.

Colorectal cancer can develop in the colon or rectum. Other types of tumors, carcinoid, gastrointestinal stromal and lymphomas can also occur, but are far less frequent.

What are the signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer?

Signs and symptoms of colorectal cancers may present similar to other conditions, such as hemorrhoids and inflammatory bowel disease. Symptoms vary between individuals, but if you are experiencing any of the following, it’s important to consult with your physician:

• Blood in stool (typically bright red or very dark)
• Change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation
• Stools that are more narrow than usual (sometimes pencil-like)
• Unexplained stomach discomfort
• Unexplained weight loss
• Tiredness and fatigue
• Iron deficiency anemia (low number of red blood cells)

How is colorectal cancer treated?

While surgery is the most common treatment, our physicians may recommend the following based on your specific diagnosis:

• Chemotherapy
• Radiation
• Targeted therapy
• Combination of treatment options