Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of U.S. cancer deaths. Studies show that as many as 60% of these deaths could be prevented with routine colonoscopies beginning at age 45.
In most cases, the disease develops from abnormal precancerous growths called polyps in the colon or rectum, which can be easily detected and removed during a colonoscopy.
Polyps are growths on the inner wall of the colon and rectum. Some types of polyps may increase a person’s risk of developing colorectal cancer, but not all polyps become cancerous.
Colorectal cancer occurs more frequently among people with high-calorie, high-fat diets that are low in important nutrients such as calcium, folic acid and fiber. It develops less often in people who eat a low-fat diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains and unprocessed foods.
Symptoms of colorectal cancer are often subtle. Check with a doctor if you notice the following signs:
- Pain and tenderness in the lower abdomen
- Blood in your stool
- Diarrhea, constipation or other changes in bowel habits
- Pain that may indicate intestinal obstruction
- Narrow stool
- Unexplained anemia
- Weight loss with no known cause
Ninety percent of our rectal cancer patients do not end up with a permanent colostomy bag after surgery. About 70% of patients do need a temporary diversion of the body’s stool from the reconstructed area so that it can heal properly.
Temporary bowel diversions are typically reversed about six weeks after surgery.
For more information or to make an appointment, please call us at 888-717-4463.