Colon (and Rectal) Cancer is the #2 killer cancer in the United States. We have about 200,000 cases a year. 1 in 22 of us will develop Colon/Rectal Cancer is our lifetime.
This is a malignant tumor that begins in the lining of the colon and rectum, usually as a small benign polyp that grows, eventually changing into a cancer that then invades nearby organs and spreads by the blood stream and lymphatics to distant sites.
The quick answer is YES....
Your doctor will start with listening to your complaints, ask a few relevant questions about your family history and will then do a thorough physical examination. This will include a rectal examination and a test for blood in your stool. If necessary a colonoscopy will be recommended.
Yes, but the colonoscopy is the gold standard and should be the index test.
Other alternatives are:
Usually you will be scheduled for a surgery to remove the involved segment of colon and adjacent lymph nodes. Often this can be done laparoscopically, with the assistance of a robot, resulting in precise resection, shorter and less painful hospital stay with quicker return to normal activities. In the case of rectal cancer, you may need a course of pre operative radiation/chemotherapy.
ColoProctology Associates & nasaHernia provides comprehensive care for Colon/Rectal Cancer and it's prevention. Use the online booking tool or call the office to book your evaluation today.