Colorectal Cancer
Common ConditionCancer of colon or rectum, preventable through screening that can detect and remove precancerous polyps.
Symptoms
Change in bowel habits
Blood in stool
Rectal bleeding
Persistent abdominal discomfort
Feeling that bowel doesn't empty
Weakness or fatigue
Unexplained weight loss
Narrow stools
Iron deficiency anemia
May have no early symptoms
Causes
1
Age (over 50)2
Family history3
Inherited syndromes (Lynch, FAP)4
Personal history of polyps5
Inflammatory bowel disease6
Diet high in red/processed meat7
Obesity8
Sedentary lifestyle9
Smoking10
Heavy alcohol useTreatments
Surgery
Chemotherapy
Radiation therapy
Targeted therapy
Immunotherapy
Polypectomy (early polyps)
Colostomy (sometimes needed)
Palliative care
Clinical trials
Surveillance after treatment
When to See a Doctor
Begin screening at age 45-50 (earlier with risk factors). See a doctor for blood in stool, persistent change in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, or abdominal pain.
Find a Specialist NowAbout Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal Cancer: Screening Saves Lives
Colorectal cancer is highly preventable through screening, which can find and remove polyps before they become cancer. Regular screening starting at age 45-50 is recommended.
"Ang screening ay nagliligtas ng buhay—huwag ipagpaliban."
Doctors Treating Colorectal Cancer