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Colorectal cancer

What is colorectal cancer?

Colorectal cancer is malignant cells found in the colon or rectum. The colon and rectum are part of the large intestine, which is part of the digestive system. Because colon cancer and rectal cancers have many features in common, they are sometimes referred to together as colorectal cancer. Cancerous tumors found in the colon or rectum also may spread to other parts of the body.

Colorectal cancer is the second most common cancer in both men and women. It is estimated by the American Cancer Society that 148,610 colorectal cancer cases are expected in 2006. The number of deaths due to colorectal cancer has decreased, which is attributed to increased screenings and polyp removal.

Symptoms of colorectal cancer

The following are the most common symptoms of colorectal cancer. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. People who have any of the following symptoms should check with their physicians, especially if they are over 50 years old or have a personal or family history of the disease. It is also important to remember that some individuals have no symptoms. That’s why it is important to talk to your doctor about this disease, beginning at age 50.

• A change in bowel habits such as diarrhea, constipation or narrowing of the stool that lasts for more than a few days
• Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
• Cramping or gnawing stomach pain
• Decreased appetite
• Vomiting
• Weakness and fatigue
• Jaundice – yellowing of the skin and eyes

Learn more about colorectal cancer