Frequently Asked Questions about Colorectal Cancer

What is colorectal cancer?

Is there something I can do to help prevent colorectal cancer?

How do I know if I should get screened?

What are the different types of screening producedures?

What are the symptoms of colorectral cancer?

 

What is colorectal cancer?
Colorectal cancer is a cancer that develops in the colon or the rectum. These cancers are sometimes referred to separately as colon cancer or rectal cancer, depending on where they start. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cancer killer in the United States, but it doesn't have to be. If everybody agred 50 or older had regular screening tests, most of the deaths from colorectal cancer could be prevented.

Is there something I can do to help prevent colorectal cancer?
Yes! Colorectal cancer almost always develops from precancerous polyps (abnormal growths) in the colon or rectum. Screening tests can find precancerous polyps, so that they can be removed before they turn into cancer. Screening tests can also find colorectal cancer early, when treatment works best.

How do I know if I should get screened?
You should talk to your doctor about screening if you fall into any of the following categories:

• You are 50 years or older
• You are experiencing symptoms (see list of symptoms below)
• You have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
• You have inflammatory bowel disease

What are the different types of screening procedures?
There are several different types of screening procedures. The best thing to do is talk with your doctor to determine which screening procedure if best for you. The recommended procedures inlcude:

• Colonoscopy
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy
• Virtual colonoscopy (CT colongraphy)
• Double contrast barium enema
• Fecal occult blood test (FOBT)
• Fecal immunochemical test (FIT)
• Stool DNA test (SDNA)

What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer?
Usually colorectal cancer does not cause any symptoms in its early stages. However, if symptoms are present, they can include:

• Blood in or on the stool
• A change in bowel habits
• Stools tht are narrower than usual
• General unexplained stomach discomfort
• Frequent gas, pains, or indigestion
• Unexplained weight loss
• Chronic fatigue

These symptoms can also be associated with many other health conditions. If you have any of these symptoms, discuss them with your doctor. Only your doctor can determine the cause of these symptoms.

 

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