About Colon and Rectal Cancer
Colon cancer affects the very end of the digestive system called the colon, or large bowel. The upper 5-6 feet of the large intestine is the colon, while the lower 5-6 inches is the rectum. Colon and rectal cancers are the fourth most common cancers diagnosed in the United States. Fortunately, survival after diagnosis is on the upswing over the last decade. In addition to better treatments and surgical techniques, there has been an uptick in the amount of people having a screening colonoscopy procedure after age 45.
While colon cancer is one of the most deadly cancers, it’s also one of the most preventable. When detected early, colon cancer is very treatable. The earlier it’s found, the more likely it is that the cancer will be cured. But as the cancer advances, the cure rate also declines. That’s why a screening colonoscopy is so important.
Polyps in the Colon
Most colon cancers start as polyps in the colon. Polyps are growths that may start out benign, but can become cancerous over time. Polyps that have a higher risk of developing into cancer are called adenomas.
When you have a screening colonoscopy, one of our gastroenterologists will scope the entire length of the colon using a flexible tube looking for polyps and adenomas. The reason screening is so important is because finding polyps and removing them reduces the risk of colon cancer by up to 90%.
Early State Disease
Approximately two thirds of colon cancer patients have localized cancer, which is best treated surgically.
Patients with Stage 1 and Stage 2 colon cancer have a cure rate of approximately 95%.
The most common treatment for early stage colon cancer is surgery. Innovative surgical techniques can also be used in conjunction with other treatments for patients whose cancer has spread.