Colon Cancer Education
Colorectal (colon) cancer is cancer that occurs in the colon or rectum. The colon is the large intestine or large bowel. The rectum is the passageway connecting the colon to the anus.
The majority of colorectal cancers begin as polyps ‐ abnormal growths ‐ inside the colon or rectum that may become cancers over a long period of time.
What Causes Colorectal Cancer and Who is at Risk?
The exact cause of most colorectal cancer is not yet known. Your risk is considered higher than average if:
- You are over the age of 50
- You are a man
- You are African American
- You are an Ashkenazi Jew
- You or a close blood relative have had colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer
- You have inflammatory bowel disease
- You have an inherited genetic syndrome such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC)
- You have type 2 diabetes
Are there Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer?
Symptoms can include:
- Having diarrhea or constipation
- Feeling that your bowel does not empty completely
- Finding blood (either bright red or very dark) in your stool
- Finding your stools are narrower than usual
- Cramping or steady stomach pain
- Losing weight with no known reason
- Feeling very tired and weak all the time
- Having nausea or vomiting
Most often, these symptoms are not due to cancer. Other health problems can cause the same symptoms. Anyone with these symptoms should see a doctor to be diagnosed and treated as early as possible.
Early cancer usually does not cause pain. It is important not to wait to feel pain before seeing a doctor.
Are there Things I can do to Help Prevent Colorectal Cancer?
- Have regular screening tests for colorectal cancer beginning at age 50
- Limit consumption of alcohol to less than two drinks per day
- Maintain a healthy body weight
- Exercise regularly
- Avoid diets high in fat, red meats or processed meats
- Increase consumption of fruits and vegetables
- Have your blood sugar level checked (type 2 diabetes is associated with increased risk)
- Avoid smoking
Is there a way to Find Colorectal Cancer or Precancerous Conditions Early?
If you’re 50 or older, getting a screening test for colorectal cancer could save your life. Here’s how:
- Colorectal cancer usually starts from a polyp in the colon or rectum. A polyp is an abnormal growth that shouldn’t be there
- Over time, some polyps can turn into cancer
- Screening tests can find polyps, so they can be removed before they turn into cancer
- Screening tests can also find colorectal cancer early, when the chance of being cured is good
What are the Screening Tests for Colorectal Cancer?
Several tests are available to screen for colorectal cancer. Some are used alone; others are used in combination with each other. Talk with your doctor about which tests or tests are best for you.
- Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT)
- Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
- Combination of FOBT and Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
- Double‐contrast Barium Enema
- Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT)
- Colonoscopy
Who do you call if you have questions?
Call (740) 356-7490 or toll free 1-888-722-8787, or e-mail us if you have questions.
