Colorectal Cancer

What Is Colorectal Cancer?

The digestive, or gastrointestinal, system processes food to absorb nutrients and eliminate waste. The colon and rectum, which make up the large intestine, are the final portions of this system. Colorectal cancer refers to cancer that begins in either the colon or rectum.

The wall of the colon and rectum is made up of several layers of tissue. Colorectal cancer typically begins in the innermost lining and can grow outward through the wall. As it progresses, cancer can spread into blood and lymphatic vessels, allowing it to travel to other parts of the body

What Causes Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer develops due to genetic changes in cells that lead to abnormal growth and division. While the exact cause is not always known, certain factors are linked to an increased risk:

• Aging
• Personal history of colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer
• Personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease)
• Family history of colorectal cancer or adenomatous polyps
• Inherited genetic mutations (such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis)
• Obesity
• Lack of physical activity
• Smoking
• Heavy alcohol use
• Diet high in processed or red meats
• Diet including meats cooked at very high temperatures

How Is Colorectal Cancer Detected?

Colorectal cancer is often detected through screening. Screening is important because it can identify precancerous polyps before they become cancer and can detect colorectal cancer at an early stage, when it is more treatable. Common screening options include:

• Colonoscopy: Every 10 years
• CT colonography: Every 5 years*
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy: Every 5 years*
• Double-contrast barium enema: Every 5 years*
• Fecal immunochemical test (FIT): Every year*,**
• Guaiac-based fecal occult blood test (gFOBT): Every year*,**
• Stool DNA test: Every 3 years*

*If any of these tests are positive, a colonoscopy is recommended. **High-sensitivity versions of stool-based tests are recommended.

People at higher risk, such as those with family history or certain medical conditions, should work with their doctor to create a personalized screening plan.

Signs and Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer may cause:

• Blood in the stool (bright red or darkened stool)
• Rectal bleeding
• Abdominal pain, cramping, or discomfort
• Frequent bloating or gas
• Change in bowel habits (constipation, diarrhea, or narrowing of stool)
• A persistent urge to have a bowel movement even after going
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fatigue or weakness
• Unexplained weight loss

These symptoms can also be caused by other conditions. If you experience any of them, it is important to see your doctor.

Stages of Colorectal Cancer

Staging describes how far colorectal cancer has spread and helps guide treatment. According to the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC):

Stage 0

Cancer is limited to the innermost lining of the colon or rectum.

Stage I

Cancer has grown into deeper layers of the colon or rectum wall but has not spread to nearby lymph nodes.

Stage II and III

Cancer has spread further into the wall and may involve nearby tissues or lymph nodes, but not distant organs.

Stage IV

Cancer has spread to distant parts of the body, such as the liver, lungs, bones, or distant lymph nodes.

How Is Colorectal Cancer Treated?

Treatment depends on the stage and type of colorectal cancer. Options may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. These may be used alone or in combination depending on your doctor’s recommendations. Factors considered when creating a treatment plan include:

• Your age, health, and lifestyle
• The stage of your cancer
• Any other medical conditions you have
• The urgency of treatment
• The likelihood that treatment will control or cure your cancer
• Possible side effects of each treatment option

It is important to ask questions and work closely with your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks of each treatment approach.

Our Approach

We understand that a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming and scary. Here at The New York Cancer & Blood Specialists, we build our teams around you. Our expert oncologists will help guide you through this difficult time, answering any questions you may have along the way. We are here for you and will do everything in our power to meet your specific needs and exceed your expectations. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms that may be related to cancer, please call us as soon as possible at (855) 528-7322 or make an appointment online.