About Colorectal (Colon) Cancer
Colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer, is one of the most deadly forms of cancer today – but it doesn’t have to be. Most experts agree that cancer of the colon and rectum is a preventable disease; however, almost 150,000 new cases are diagnosed in the United States every year and more than 57,000 Americans will die of colorectal cancer this year alone. Colorectal cancer is second only to lung cancer in causing cancer-related deaths. It affects women and men in equal numbers.
Most colorectal cancers develop from small, benign lesions called polyps. Polyps grow on the lining of the intestine at a very slow rate and do not cause symptoms until they become large, by which time they may have turned into cancer. When they are removed early in their growth, progression to cancer is prevented.
Risk factors for the development of colorectal cancer include a strong family history of colorectal cancer or a personal history of colorectal adenomatous polyps or cancer, inflammatory bowel disease (such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease), breast cancer, ovarian cancer, or uterine cancer. It should be pointed out, however, that the majority of all colorectal cancer (about 75% of cases) occurs in persons without risk factors for developing cancer.The occurrence of colorectal cancer increases with age, especially after the age of 50 years.
Most colorectal cancer can be prevented by detection and removal of precancerous polyps. Experts also believe that more than 90% of colorectal cancer can be cured if diagnosed early. Therefore, colorectal screening is strongly recommended. The American Cancer Society recommends that periodic screening begin at age 50 years for average-risk persons and earlier for those with significant risk factors (see above).
There are a variety of different tests available for colorectal cancer and polyp screening.These include digital rectal examination, fecal occult blood testing, flexible sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, and the newest technology–virtual colonoscopy. Consult your physician to receive guidance in choosing the appropriate test or tests for you and for scheduling your examinations.