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If you are concerned about a loved one or even your own health and you take to the internet to do some research, you could quickly become confused.  Colorectal cancer.  Colon cancer.  Rectal cancer. Anal cancer.  There are a lot of terms for cancers that seem to affect a small part of the body!

Colorectal cancer is the second most common cancer in the US.  It is a broad term that includes both colon and rectal cancers, so you will often hear the terms used interchangeably.  The colon and rectum are both a part of the large intestine.  Because of this symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment are very similar for colon and rectal cancer.

Anal Cancer is actually completely different from colorectal cancers.  It is very rare, but we will discuss that further in our next article. 

Symptoms of colorectal cancer are similar to those of hemorrhoids or even diverticulitis. If you are experiencing any of the following, make an appointment immediately to ensure early diagnosis and treatment:

·        Rectal bleeding

·        Anal pain

·        Abdominal pain

·        Changes in bowels

·        Nausea or vomiting

·        Rectal fullness

·        Urgent bowel movements

Risk factors for rectal and colon cancer are also the same:

·        Personal history of polyps, IBS, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, or breast, uterine, or ovarian cancer

·        Family history of colorectal polyps, colorectal cancer

·        Smoking

·        Obesity

·        Over 50 years old, though newer developments show that patients much younger are being diagnosed as well

As you can see, both men and women are at risk. 

Treatment options vary, but colorectal cancers are highly treatable when diagnosed early.  Sadly, many people wait until they are experiencing symptoms to seek testing, which is often too late.

Colon cancer doesn’t have to be deadly.  Contact our office today to secure your future.