What is Colorectal Cancer?
So what is Colorectal Cancer? Colorectal cancer is cancer that occurs in the rectum or colon. Colorectal cancer treatment involves chemotherapy, radiation, and colorectal surgery.
Colorectal cancer is also known as bowel cancer or colon cancer. It is a type of cancer that starts in the colon or the rectum. Cancers develop when cells in the body begin to grow without control. The colon and rectum are parts of the digestive system and make up the large intestine.
Colorectal cancer is the world’s third most common cancer after lung cancer and breast cancer. However, colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers when detected early. The key to preventing colorectal cancer is
What Causes Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer typically begins as slow growing, small growth in the bowel (rectum and colon). Over time these pre-cancerous growths (polyps) progress into cancer.
Colorectal Cancer Risk Factors
Risk factors can increase your chances of developing cancer. The risk factors for colorectal cancer include:
- Age over 50
- Family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
- Hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer (HNPCC) or Lynch syndrome
- Crohn’s disease (ulcerative colitis)
- Diet rich in fat and red meat
- Cigarette smoking
Colorectal Cancer Prevention
The best way to preventing colorectal cancer is to go for screening so that the cancer is found at an early stage before it begins to grow. However, you can reduce your risks of getting colorectal cancer by making major lifestyle changes such as taking regular exercises, eating a balanced diet, not smoking and knowing your family history.
Colorectal Cancer Symptoms
Colorectal cancer symptoms take time to show. It’s important to be proactive and talk to El Paso colon cancer specialist for a possibility of colon cancer screening. The symptoms of colorectal cancer include:
- A change in bowel habits such constipation and diarrhea
- Rectal bleeding
- Fatigue accompanied with weight loss for no reason
- Persistent abdominal discomforts like cramps, gas and bloated stomach
- Nausea or vomiting
Early signs of colorectal cancer do not include pain. Hence, it’s important not to wait to see the doctor as early detection can save your life.
Best Quality Colorectal Cancer Screening & Treatment in El Paso
At El Paso Bariatric Surgery, we offer comprehensive colorectal cancer treatments based on what stage your cancer is diagnosed at. We also offer support and expert care to you stay healthy and active during and after your colorectal cancer treatment in El Paso.
Best colorectal cancer surgeon in El Paso Dr. Benjamin Clapp offers world-class screening and treatment for colorectal cancer that includes chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery.
If you’re worried about colorectal cancer or have been diagnosed with it, don’t despair. Come to our conveniently located state-of-the-art clinic in El Paso for screening and effective treatment right away.
Contact us to schedule your appointment today.