Colorectal Cancer – The Preventable Cancer

What is colorectal cancer?

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in men and women and the second most common cause of cancer deaths. Colorectal cancer begins in either the colon or the rectum, part of the digestive tract, also called the GI (gastrointestinal) tract, where food is processed to create energy and rid the body of waste.

How does colorectal cancer develop?

It all starts with a polyp. Polyps are benign (non-cancerous) growths of the colon and rectum. Colorectal cancer occurs when the cells of the polyp become abnormal and grow out of control. Unfortunately, many colorectal cancers are "silent" tumors until they are advanced and produce symptoms. However, through regular screenings, colorectal cancer is preventable, and curable, if detected early.

What are the risk factors for colorectal cancer?

With more than 90 percent of cases diagnosed in individuals over the age of 50, the primary risk factor for colorectal cancer is age.

Other risk factors for colorectal cancer include:

• 50 or older
• Personal history of colon or pre-cancerous polyps, or colorectal, breast or uterine cancer
• Family history of colon or pre-cancerous polyps, or colorectal, breast or uterine cancer
• Ulcerative Colitis or Crohn's Disease
• Smoking and Alcohol Consumption
• Obesity and Physical inactivity

How can colorectal cancer be prevented?

Every man and woman at age 50 is at average risk for developing colorectal cancer and should get a Colonoscopy. Getting a colonoscopy screening for colon cancer can identify polyps. Polyps are the precursor of cancer and therefore removing them can prevent the polyp from progressing to cancer.

What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer?

In its early stages, colorectal cancer may show no symptoms. For this reason, it is very important to have regular colorectal cancer prevention examinations, or screenings. When symptoms are present, the cancer may still be curable if not ignored.

The symptoms of colorectal cancer may include:

• Change in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea)
• Blood on or in the stool (not always visible to naked eye)
• Unexplained anemia
• Unusual abdominal or gas pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue
• Vomiting
  

How is colorectal cancer treated?

If cancer is found, the Florida Hospital Cancer Institute has developed a comprehensive program with a multidisciplinary approach to providing the best care for patients with colorectal cancer. Colon cancer can be treated by surgery, radiation and/or chemotherapy, or a combination.

At the core of the Colorectal Cancer Program at the Florida Hospital Cancer Institute is a team of the country's leading colorectal cancer experts who work together to deliver the most comprehensive treatment to each patient.

The Colorectal Cancer Team

With the help of the Colorectal Cancer Team, board certified physicians with extensive knowledge in colorectal cancer and numerous years of experience and training, our Colorectal Cancer Team includes experts who are among the best and most experienced physicians in the country.

Florida Hospital treats more cancer patients than any other healthcare system in Florida. Our cancer specialists are leading the way in developing advanced therapies for fighting colorectal cancer. And we treat each patient as an individual, with respect and compassion.

Colorectal Cancer Care Coordinator

Another key member of the Colorectal Cancer Team is our care coordinator. The primary role of our care coordinator is to make things easier for those with abnormal colonoscopy results or a diagnosis of colorectal cancer. The care coordinator explains procedures and options, assists patients with rapid scheduling of all appointments and consultations with the Colorectal Cancer Team, and provides information on the latest clinical trials.

Anyone can self-refer to the care coordinator. All calls are free and confidential, and no insurance authorization is required.

Schedule a consultation or to get information on our Colorectal Cancer Program, call 407-303-5981 or contact us online.

Second Opinion Services

When faced with colorectal cancer, it is often necessary for patients to seek out a second opinion. Patients may decide to obtain a second opinion to confirm that their first diagnosis is accurate, confirm their choice of treatment, learn about other options available or fulfill a requirement of their insurance plan. The Florida Hospital Cancer Institute offers a wide range of physicians who provide second opinions. We can match patients with the appropriate specialist to discuss diagnosis and treatment options.

To schedule an appointment for second opinion or for more information about the nationally ranked Florida Hospital Digestive Health Center, call 1-866-888-0866, or contact us online.

Call 407-303-5981 for more information about the nationally ranked Florida Hospital Digestive Health Center.