Colorectal Cancer

Cancer of the colon or rectum is also called colorectal cancer. In the United States, it is the fourth most common cancer in men and women. Caught early, it is often curable.

It is more common in people over 50, and the risk increases with age. You are also more likely to get it if you have

Polyps - growths inside the colon and rectum that may become cancerous
A diet that is high in fat
A family history or personal history of colorectal cancer
Ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease

Symptoms can include blood in the stool, narrower stools, a change in bowel habits and general stomach discomfort. However, you may not have symptoms at first, so screening is important. Everyone who is 50 or older should be screened for colorectal cancer. Treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation or a combination.

National Cancer Institute

Colorectal Cancer on Wikipedia

'''Colorectal cancer''', also called '''colon cancer''' or '''bowel cancer''', includes cancerous growths in the colon (anatomy), rectum and Vermiform appendix. It is the third most common form of cancer and the second leading cause of death among cancers in the Western world. Many colorectal cancers are thought to arise from adenoma polyp (medicine)s in the colon. These mushroom-like growths are usually benign, but some may develop into cancer over time. Diagnosis is by colonoscopy. Therapy is usually through surgery, with many cases also requiring chemotherapy.

Symptoms

Symptoms of colorectal cancer include: * Change in bowel habits. * Blood in stools (melena, hematochezia). * Bowel obstruction (rare) by the tumor Often, the symptoms are much less specific: * Unexplained weight loss. * Anemia, with symptoms such as tiredness, malaise, pallor * Hepatomegaly (enlargement of the liver) due to metastasis of the tumor It is also possible that there will be no symptoms at all. This is one reason why some recommend periodical screening for the disease.

Risk factors

The lifetime risk of developing colon cancer in the United States is about 7%. Certain factors increase a person's risk of developing the disease. These include: * Age. The risk of developing colorectal cancer increases with age. Most cases occur in the 60s and 70s, while cases before age 50 are uncommon unless a family history of early colon cancer is present. * History of cancer. Women who have had cancer of the ovary, uterus, or breast are at higher risk of developing colorectal cancer. * Heredity: ** Family history of colon cancer, especially in a close relative before the age of 55 or multiple relatives ** Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) carries a near ''100%'' risk of developing colorectal ... [ Read More ]

External Resources

LifeLine - Offering a test for detecting the early symptoms of colorectal cancer.

Criscom International - Outlines the terms and progress of a research study related to cancer risk communication in hereditary breast, ovarian and colorectal cancers.

Aventis Cancer Vaccine Program - Studying the possibilities of using an immunotherapeutic approach for melanoma, breast and colorectal and tumors. Includes results of clinical research, FAQ, contact form, and profile of research partners in Canada.

Health-E-Cards - Features teen smoking, diabetes, breast cancer and colorectal informational greetings.

Generations: Colorectal Cancer Registry in Hong Kong - Explains what this Asian-based entity does, and provides access to a support group and a newsletter.

CEA-Scan - General information on colorectal cancer with emphasis on a monoclonal antibody diagnostic test.

OnTumor.com: Colorectal Cancer - General summary includes risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.

Colorectal Cancer Week - News and information about the prevention, diagnosis and treatment. Small subscription charge.

ISOPAH Clinics Australia - Encourages the prevention, screening and early diagnosis of colorectal cancer.

University of Chicago: Section of Gastroenterology - Overview of colorectal cancer aimed at both the lay and professional level.

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