The colon is the last portion of the digestive system. It extracts water and salt from solid wastes before it is eliminated from the body. The last 13 inches of the colon is called the rectum.  Cancer that starts in the colon is called colon cancer. Cancer that starts in the rectum is called rectal cancer. Cancer of the colon and rectum is also called colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer usually starts as a polyp, or growth, on the wall of the colon or rectum. Some polyps may develop into cancer.

Globally, colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer. It is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States.

Most colorectal cancers can be prevented with on-time screening.

When caught early, colorectal cancer is about 90% treatable.

The number one symptom is NO SYMPTOM AT ALL. This is why on-time screening is so important.

If you do have symptoms, no matter your age, please contact your doctor. Symptoms can include:

• a change in bowel habits

• blood in/on stool or dark stools

• passing a large amount of blood

• diarrhea lasting for more than a few days

• constipation lasting for more than a few days

• narrow stools (looks pencil-thin)

• gas, bloating and cramps that don’t go away

• anemia

• fatigue

• weight loss

• persistent abdominal pain

  This is not medical advice. Many of these symptoms are also caused by other conditions. Please consult a physician if you have these signs and symptoms.