This is a cancer that is located in the colon (large intestine) and/or rectum. Colon Polyps are a major cause of colon cancer. It is believed that certain types of polyps (adenomatous) eventually turn into cancer if not removed. Colon cancer may also occur without polyps in certain diseases, such as ulcerative colitis.
Familial polyposis syndromes (i.e., genetic diseases with multiple Colon Polyps)
Surgical removal of the cancer
Surgical removal of metastases (tumor spread) to liver and lung may be considered.
Chemotherapy and/or radiation treatment for more advanced Colorectal Cancer.
The earlier Colorectal Cancer is
caught, the more likely it is to be cured. Early Colorectal Cancer has
a very high survival rate. Current screening techniques include:
Hemoccult cards -- set of three cards check for blood in stool every year, plus flexible Sigmoidoscopy (short scope placed in rectum) every three to five years.
- It is unclear whether high-fiber diets (bran, whole grains) prevent Colorectal Cancer. For high-risk individuals, a high-fiber diet is still recommended.
