Colorectal Cancer

When cancer forms in the rectum or large intestine (colon), it is called colorectal cancer. Most cancers in the colon area begin as small, flat, recessed, or mushroom shaped polyps that form on the inside lining of the large intestine. They are generally painless and without symptoms, particularly in the early stages of the problem. It is not clear why some of these polyps become cancerous and spread throughout the intestines and into other organs.

Colon cancer is still common even though rates have been declining for more than 20 years due to better screening and treatment. Currently, more than 140,000 new cases are detected each year in the U.S. and sadly, more than 50,000 people will die of the disease. The good news is that colon cancer is highly treatable in its early stages and can be prevented with regular screenings and removal of suspicious polyps.

Factors that may increase the risk of colon cancer include:

• Older age – most diagnoses are made in people older than 50 years.
• Gender – more men than women are diagnosed with colon cancer.
• Race – African Americans are more at risk.
• Family or personal history – Cancers within the same family may occur because of shared lifestyle factors such as diet or smoking. There are also some rare, inherited forms of colon cancer.
• Inflammatory intestinal conditions such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease increases the risk of developing colon cancer.

There are some risk factors that can be controlled:

• A sedentary lifestyle – effective and regular exercise can reduce your risk.
• Obesity – people who are obese have both an increased risk of developing colon cancer AND an increased risk of dying from it.
• Smoking – increases the risk of developing many diseases including colon cancer.
• Alcohol – heavy use of alcohol increases the risk.
• Low fiber, high fat diet – some studies have even implicated diets high in red meat for increased risk of colon cancer.

When colon cancer progresses, it can produce symptoms such as:

• A change in bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation or a change in the consistency of your stool.
• Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool.
• Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas, or pain.
• A feeling that your bowel will not completely empty.
• Weakness or fatigue.
• Unexplained weight loss.

If you are 50 years of age or older, consider a colonoscopy to assess your risk. Old Hook Medical Associates has a state-of-the-art gastroenterology suite where our Board-Certified Gastroenterologists will perform the procedure, diagnose any abnormalities, and recommend any needed treatment. http://www.oldhookmedical.com/services/medical-specialties-new-jersey/gastroenterology-new-jersey