Colorectal cancer

Both colon and rectal cancer have similar features, so they are often grouped together and referred to as colorectal cancer. Most cases of colorectal cancer start as noncancerous growths referred to as polyps. Some of these polyps, over time, may become cancerous if not treated early.

Polyps are often small and do not always cause symptoms. Because of this, we recommend regular screening tests to help detect colorectal cancer early. Please talk to your healthcare provider to find the best screening options for you, or find a physician.

Knowing if you are at high risk can help inform your preventive health decisions. Talk to your doctor about more frequent testing if you:

• Are an active tobacco user
• Are Black or of Eastern European descent
• Are older than 60 years old
• Are overweight or obese
• Drink more than one drink a day
• Eat a diet high in red meat and low in fiber
• Get less than 30 minutes of physical activity a day
• Have a family history of colorectal cancer
• Have an inherited syndrome, such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or Lynch syndrome
• Have inflammatory bowel disease, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease
• Have Type 2 diabetes

Our team can also treat conditions that potentially lead to colorectal cancer, such as Cowden syndrome, familial adenomatous polyposis, juvenile polyposis coli, Peutz-Jeghers syndrome and Turcot syndrome.

You may not always show symptoms of colorectal cancer, or they may mimic symptoms of other common conditions. Signs of colorectal cancer can include:

• Any major change in bowel habits
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Feeling bowels do not totally empty
• Frequent gas pain or bloating
• General abdominal discomfort
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea or vomiting
• New onset anemia
• Persistent fatigue or weakness
• Red, black or tarry blood in stool
• Stools that are narrower than usual
• Unexplained weight loss

Following the guidelines from the American Cancer Society, we encourage you to begin regular screenings for colorectal cancer at 45 years old. Screenings are important to ensure your body stays healthy and to detect any concerning developments, which may include early signs of cancer.

The most common way to screen for colorectal cancer is through a colonoscopy. The procedure involves inserting a thin, flexible tube attached to a camera into the rectum. This allows doctors to gain a detailed view of the colon and catch any signs of cancer early. A colonoscopy usually takes about 30 minutes, and you are typically provided a moderate sedative.

Additional screenings for colorectal cancer include:

• Fecal immunochemical test (FIT)
• Fecal occult blood test (FOBT)
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy
• Multitargeted Fecal DNA test (mt-sDNA)
• Virtual colonoscopy (CTC)

Stay on top of your well-being with preventive health screenings. Contact us about a colonoscopy using our online form.

We offer comprehensive colorectal cancer treatment through our oncology program. Our team of doctors, nurses, surgeons and healthcare professionals will work together to create an individualized treatment plan to fit your unique needs.

This may include:

• Chemotherapy
• Medications
• Radiation therapy
• Surgery