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What is Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer is cancer of the colon and rectum that
begins with the development of non-cancerous polyps on the
lining of the colon and rectum.
What is a Polyp?
Polyps are mushroom-like growths that form when cells
lining the colon grow, divide and reproduce in an unhealthy,
disorderly way. Polyps can become cancerous over time, invading
the colon wall and surrounding blood vessels, and spread to
other parts of the body.
What Causes
Colorectal Cancer?
The exact causes of colorectal cancer are unknown, but
the disease appears to be caused by both inherited and lifestyle
factors. Lifestyle factors - cigarette smoking, lack of physical
exercise, and obesity - may increase the risk of developing the
disease. Genetic factors may determine a person's susceptibility
to the disease; whereas dietary and other lifestyle factors may
determine which at-risk individuals actually go on to develop
the disease.
How Common is
Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of death
from cancer in the United States, and the third most common
cancer overall. This year, more than 56,000 Americans will die
from colorectal cancer and more than 140,000 new cases will be
diagnosed. In fact, more women over the age of 75 die from
colorectal cancer than from breast cancer. Eighty to 90 million
Americans (approximately 25 percent of the U.S. population) are
considered at risk because of age or other factors.
Who is at Risk for
Colorectal Cancer?
Men and women aged 50 or older are at almost equal risk
of developing colorectal cancer, and those who have a personal
or family history of colorectal cancer or polyps are at high
risk of developing the disease. Anyone who has a long-term
personal history of inflammatory bowel disease also is at high
risk.
How Can You Prevent
Colorectal Cancer?
See your doctor for yearly screenings if you are aged 50
or older. Be sure to maintain a diet low in animal fat and high
in fruits, vegetables and fiber. Get regular exercise and avoid
cigarette smoking. Keep alcohol consumption in moderation.
What are the
Screening Options for Detecting Colorectal Cancer?
Screening tests are the best way to find and remove
polyps before they become cancerous, or to find an early cancer,
when treatment can be most effective. Several screening options
exist. These include the fecal occult blood test (FOBT),
flexible sigmoidoscopy, double contrast barium enema, and
colonoscopy. Patients should talk to their colorectal surgeon or
other healthcare provider to find out which screening method is
right for them.
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