What is Colorectal Cancer ?
Colorectal Cancer is a cancer that happens in the colon or rectum. It is also can be known as colon cancer. Both men and women can get it and it is often found in people 50 years and older. As you get older, your risk can keep going up.
Symptoms
Some people with colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer do have symptoms. They may include:
- Blood in or on your stool (bowel movement).
- Stomach pain, aches, or cramps that don’t go away.
- Losing weight and you don’t know why.
How to Protect Yourself
Colon Cancer can begin with no symptoms at first. That is why having a screening test is so important. Living a healthy colon lifestyle means creating habits that can help prevent colorectal cancer and other diseases.
Here are some ways to start:
- Follow healthy eating habits
- Get regular exercise
- Reduce stress
- Monitor your weight
- Quit smoking
Know the Risk Factors
Your risk of colon cancer may be higher if:
- You or a close relative have had colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer.
- You have inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn’s disease, or ulcerative colitis.
- You have genes such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer.
Talk to your doctor about when to begin screening, which test is right for you, and how often you should be tested.
If you are at risk for colorectal cancer, you may need earlier or testing more often than other people.
Pruebas de deteccion de cancer colorrectal (PDF)
Support and Services for Colorectal Cancer
Click on the links in bold to find more support and services.
MemorialCare Colorectal Cancer Care
Colorectal Cancer Alliance: Helpline (877) 422- 2030