One of the most preventable cancers through regular screening and healthy lifestyle choices.
Learn MoreColorectal cancer is a term for cancer that starts in the colon or the rectum. These are parts of the large intestine, the final section of the digestive system.
Most colorectal cancers begin as a growth, called a polyp, on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. Not all polyps are cancerous, but some types (called adenomas) can, over many years, develop into cancer.
The most important thing to know: Colorectal cancer is a highly preventable cancer. Through regular screening, polyps can be found and removed before they have the chance to turn into cancer.
Several factors can increase a person's risk of developing colorectal cancer. Some you can control, and others you cannot.
(You Cannot Change These)
(You Can Influence These)
You have significant power to reduce your risk of colorectal cancer through lifestyle and, most importantly, screening.
This is the single most effective way to protect yourself. Screening can detect polyps so they can be removed before they develop into cancerous cells.
Colonoscopy: A doctor uses a flexible tube with a camera to examine the entire colon. If polyps are found, they can be removed during the procedure. This is considered the "gold standard" test.
Recommendation: For most people, regular screening typically begins at age 45. Discuss with your doctor when to start and decide which test is best for you.
Other Tests: Stool-based tests (such as FIT) can also be used for screening. If these tests are abnormal, a colonoscopy is necessary.
Discuss your family's health history with your relatives. If you have a strong family history, you may need to start screening earlier and undergo screening more frequently.
Early-stage colorectal cancer often has no symptoms, which is why screening is critical before symptoms appear.
A persistent change in your bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or a change in the consistency of your stool.
Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool (which may make stool look dark brown or black).
Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas, or pain.
A feeling that your bowel doesn't empty completely, weakness or fatigue, and unexplained weight loss.
Important: Many of these symptoms can be caused by conditions other than cancer, such as hemorrhoids or infections. However, if you experience any persistent changes in your bowel habits or any of these symptoms, it is essential to see a doctor to determine the cause.
If colorectal cancer is diagnosed, the treatment plan depends on the stage and location of the cancer. A team of doctors will create a personalized plan tailored to your needs.
The most common treatment. For early-stage cancers, the tumor can often be removed during a colonoscopy. For more advanced cancers, a colectomy removes part of the colon and nearby lymph nodes.
Utilizes high-energy beams to target and destroy cancer cells. It is used more commonly for rectal cancer, often before surgery to shrink the tumor.
Uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It may be given before surgery (to shrink tumors) or after surgery (to kill any remaining cancer cells).
Drugs that target specific genes or proteins in cancer cells, or utilize your body's own immune system to combat cancer.
Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer death, but it doesn't have to be. It is one of the few cancers we can prevent through screening.
Don't wait for symptoms. Discuss screening with your doctor at age 45. Your future self will thank you.