Facts ABout Colon Cancer

Colorectal Cancer is cancer that starts either in the colon or the rectum.  The two are grouped together because they are very similar. The difference is where the cancer starts. If it starts in the colon, it is called Colon Cancer. If it starts in the rectum, it is called Rectal Cancer. 

• Blood in stool
• Stomach Pain & Cramping
• Rectal Bleeding
• Weight Loss (without trying)
• Fatigue and weakness
• Change in bowel movements 
• Feeling of having to empty the  bowels,  but inability to do so
• No symptoms at all

• Family History of Colon Cancer
• History of Polyps
• History of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
• Certain Genetic Syndromes 
• Overweight
• Inactivity 
• Diet High in Red Meats

• Colorectal Cancer is the 3rd most common cause of death in the US
• It is the 3rd leading cause of cancer-related deaths in both men and women

     Lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer: 

•  1 in 23 (4.3%) for men
• 1 in 25 (4.0%) for women

The American Cancer Society estimates for 2022:

• 106,180 new cases of colon cancer 
• 44,850 new cases of rectal cancer
• 52,580 expected deaths

• Early Screening is very important
• Polyps, if found early, can be removed to prevent them from becoming cancerous
• If Colon or Rectal cancer is found early,  the chances of it spreading to other parts of the body are decreased.

• Blood Tests
• Stool Tests
• Colonoscopy
• Structural Tests