What is Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer affects parts of your digestive system that help your body process food and remove waste. It can develop in one of two areas:
- Colon (large intestine): Absorbs water and nutrients to form into stool
- Rectum: Holds stool until it leaves the body during a bowel movement
Most colorectal cancers begin as polyps (small growths on the lining of the colon or rectum).
Polyps are common and usually harmless, but some can turn into cancer over time. This is why regular screening is important.
Signs of Colorectal Cancer
Many people with colorectal cancer don’t notice symptoms at first. When signs do appear, they may include:
- Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation
- Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
- Ongoing stomach cramps, gas, or abdominal pain
- A feeling that the bowel does not empty completely
- Feeling unusually tired or weak
- Unexplained weight loss
If you notice any of these symptoms, talk with your healthcare provider.
Risk Factors
Providers don’t always know what causes colorectal cancer. However, certain factors may increase a person’s risk, such as:
- Being over age 50
- Having a close family member with colorectal cancer
- Eating a diet high in red or processed meats
- Smoking or heavy alcohol use
- Limited physical activity
- Being African American, which is linked to a higher risk of colorectal cancer
Having one or more risk factors doesn’t mean someone will develop cancer, but it makes screening is especially important.
Treatments for Colorectal Cancer
Treatment depends on how advanced the cancer is and your individual needs. Most treatment plans include one or more of the following:
- Surgery
- Radiation therapy
- Medication, including chemotherapy
Some people need only one type of treatment, while others need a combination. Your care team will explain your options and work with you to choose a treatment plan that fits your health needs and your life.
What to Expect at Stormont Vail
Stormont Vail is an integrated health system, meaning your care is connected across teams and services so you can focus on your health.
Coordinated, Integrated Care
Your providers work together to coordinate your care and share information. You don’t have to manage communication between care teams on your own.
Your care may include digestive health, cancer care, imaging, lab services, and follow‑up, all within one connected system.
Patient-Centered Care & Support
Your care team will build your care plan around your diagnosis, overall health, and goals. They’ll also explain your options in clear language and help you make informed decisions at every step.
Related Resources & Services
In addition to medical care, Stormont Vail offers support services to help address emotional and practical needs during treatment.
Colorectal Cancer Providers
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