Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States, but it is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer. It is a disease in which cancer cells grow in the colon, rectum, or both. It begins as a collection of noncancerous cells that form a growth or a polyp, which if not removed will often turn into cancer.
Who is at Risk for Colorectal Cancer?
Age, personal medical history, and family history affect the risk of developing colorectal cancer.
Risk factors include
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Age 50 or older
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A family history of colorectal cancer or polyps (precancerous growths) in the colon
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A personal history of cancer of the colon, rectum, ovary, endometrium, or breast
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A personal history of polyps in the colon
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A personal history of inflammatory bowel disease including ulcerative colitis (ulcers in the lining of the colon) or Crohn’s disease
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Certain hereditary conditions, such as familial adenomatous polyposis and hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer (HNPCC or Lynch Syndrome)
What are the Signs of Colorectal Cancer?
In the early stages of colorectal cancer, there are often no symptoms or warnings which is why it is so important to undergo screening for colorectal cancer beginning at the age of 50. Possible signs of colorectal cancer include the following:
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A change in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or feeling that the bowel does not empty completely)
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Blood (either bright red or very dark) in the stool
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Stools that are narrower than usual
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General abdominal discomfort (frequent gas pains, bloating, fullness, or cramps)
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Weight loss with no known reason
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Constant fatigue
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Vomiting
A doctor should be consulted if you experience any of the preceding problems.
Resources
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American Cancer Society
1599 Clifton Road NE
Atlanta, GA 30329
Phone: 1-800-227-2345
http://www.cancer.org
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National Cancer Institute
Cancer Information Service
Suite 3036A
Bethesda, MD20892-8322
Phone: 1-800-422-6237
http://www.nci.nih.gov
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