Virtual Tour
| C |
| Colorectal Cancer |
|
What is colorectal cancer? Colorectal cancer is malignant cells found in the colon or rectum. The colon and the rectum are parts of the large intestine, which is part of the digestive system. Because colon cancer and rectal cancers have many features in common, they are sometimes referred to together as colorectal cancer. Cancerous tumors found in the colon or rectum also may spread to other parts of the body. Excluding skin cancers, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in both men and women. It is estimated by the American Cancer Society that 146,970 colorectal cancer cases are expected in 2009. The number of deaths due to colorectal cancer has decreased, which is attributed to increased screening and polyp removal.3 What causes colorectal cancer? The exact cause of most colorectal cancer is unknown, but the known risk factors listed above are the most likely causes. A small percentage of colorectal cancers are caused by inherited gene mutations. People with a family history of colorectal cancer may wish to consider genetic testing. The American Cancer Society suggests that anyone undergoing such tests have access to a physician or geneticist qualified to explain the significance of these test results. Prevention of colorectal cancer: Although the exact cause of colorectal cancer is not known, it is possible to prevent many colon cancers with the following: * diet and exercise It is important to manage the risk factors you can control, such as diet and exercise. Eating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grain foods, and avoiding high-fat, low-fiber foods, plus exercising appropriately, even small amounts on a regular basis, can be helpful. * drug therapy Some studies have shown that low doses of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, and estrogen replacement therapy for post-menopausal women may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. Discuss this with your physician. * screenings Perhaps most important to the prevention of colorectal cancer is having screening tests at appropriate ages. Because some colorectal cancers cannot be prevented, finding them early is the best way to improve the chance of successful treatment, and reduce the number of deaths caused by colorectal cancer. The following screening guidelines can lower the number of cases of the disease, and can also lower the death rate from colorectal cancer by detecting the disease at an earlier, more treatable stage. Treatment for colorectal cancer: Specific treatment for colorectal cancer will be determined by your physician based on: * your age, overall health, and medical history * extent of the disease * your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies * expectations for the course of this disease * your opinion or preference |
