Colorectal Cancer
Colon or colorectal Cancer is fairly common and affects approximately 103,000 people in the US every year.
The best prevention is routine screenings. When identified in the early stages it is very responsive to treatment. A combination of several treatments including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation may be recommended to offer the best chance of survival.
Risk Factors
Risk factors that play a role in the development of colorectal cancer are:
- Age - Colorectal cancer is most common in people over 50
- Diet - Eating foods high in fat and low in calcium, folate, and fiber
- History of Polyps - Polyps can develop into cancer if left untreated
- Family History of Cancer - There appears to be a genetic link
- Smoking
- History of Inflammatory Bowel Disease - Crohn’s or Ulcerative Colitis
Symptoms
In the early stages there may be no symptoms. As the cancer develops you may experience:
- Changes in bowel movements such as diarrhea or constipation
- Blood in stool
- Abdominal pain, bloating, cramping, or gas
- Unintentional weight loss >10lbs
- Weakness or fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
You should not wait until you have symptoms to be checked for colon cancer! It can be prevented if polyps are identified and removed early. You should schedule your colonoscopy:
- At age 50 and then once every 10 years if no polyps are found
- At age 45 or sooner if you have a family history, history of polyps, or are of African American decent
- If polyps are identified your doctor may recommend follow up colonoscopies as often as every 3-5 years.
We are here to help.
To Make an Appointment
Call 623.208.5740
How to Find Us
The Colorectal Surgery program is located at St. Joseph’s Westgate Medical Center.7300 N. 99th Avenue
Glendale, AZ 85305