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Colon cancer — or colorectal cancer — starts as noncancerous polyps in the lining of the colon or rectum. These slow growing cancers take 10 to 15 years to develop.
At Dignity Health Central California, our doctors provide personalized care including screenings to detect cancer in its early stages, when it’s easiest to treat. If you need quality care for colorectal cancer in Central California, Find a Doctor with our online tool.
The cause of colon cancer isn’t completely clear. Even though anyone can get colon cancer, certain risk factors increase your likelihood of developing it, including:
Regular screening helps find many colon cancers early, before any noticeable symptoms start. In fact, regular screening helps find polyps before they become cancerous, preventing colon cancer from developing in the first place. There are a variety of screening methods, including colonoscopy, so talk with your doctor about your options.
When symptoms of colon cancer develop, they can include:
Many other conditions, such as hemorrhoids, have similar conditions. See your doctor for an accurate diagnosis.
The most common treatment for all stages of colon cancer is surgery. The extent of surgery will depend on the stage. Additional treatment options include:
The earlier colon cancer is caught, the better chances there are for a cure. Visit a Dignity Health Central California hospital near you for advanced care with compassion.
Dignity Health Central California provides comprehensive care for gastrointestinal cancers, including colon cancer, in Bakersfield, Merced, San Andreas, and Stockton, CA.