Colorectal Cancer

What is colorectal cancer?

Colorectal cancer starts in the large intestine (colon) or rectum. Colorectal cancer occurs when abnormal cells form tumors in normal tissues of the intestines and digestive system. The exact type of “colon” or “rectal” cancer depends on where the abnormal cells first began and how fast they grew and spread. The main differentiator between these two cancers is where the tumor first forms — in the rectum or in the rest of the colon.

What increases my risk for colorectal cancer?

• Diseases of the colon, such as polyps (small lumps of tissue) or ulcerative colitis.
• A family history of colon cancer.
• Eating foods that are high in fat, or high amounts of red meat, such as beef.
• Eating foods that are low in fiber, or not enough fruits and vegetables.
• Lack of physical activity.
• Cigarette smoking or heavy alcohol use.
• Medical conditions, such as diabetes or obesity.
• Exposure to chemicals, such as asbestos.

What are the signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer?

• Bloody or black bowel movements.
• Abdominal pain or cramps or a feeling of fullness.
• Frequent fatigue or weakness.
• Diarrhea or constipation.
• Rectal pain.
• Unexplained weight loss.

How is colorectal cancer diagnosed?

• Stool Sample: A bowel movement sample may be tested for blood.
• Ultrasound or CT scan: An ultrasound or CT scan may show where the tumor is located or if the cancer has spread. You may be given contrast liquid to help the tumor show up better. Tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had an allergic reaction to contrast liquid.
• Barium enema: A barium enema is an X-ray of the colon. A tube is put into your anus and a liquid called barium is put through the tube. Barium is used so that healthcare providers can see your colon better on the X-ray.
• Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy is a test that is done to look at your colon. A tube with a light on the end will be put into your anus and then moved forward into your colon. Your healthcare provider may take tissue samples during the colonoscopy to be tested for cancer.

How is colorectal cancer treated?

• Surgery: Surgery may be needed to remove part of your colon, rectum or lymph nodes. This may help stop the cancer from spreading.
• Therapy: Targeted therapy is medicine used to target specific cancer cells and kill them.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy medicine is used to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be used to shrink the tumor or lymph nodes before surgery. Chemotherapy may also be used after surgery to decrease the risk that cancer will come back.
• Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy is used to kill cancer cells with X-rays or gamma rays. Radiation therapy may be given either before or after surgery to kill cancer cells. It may be given alone or with chemotherapy.

What can I do to prevent or manage colorectal cancer?

• Get screened as directed. Your healthcare provider may want you to have a yearly colonoscopy to check for colorectal cancer. Screening is recommended for all men and women over the age of 45 or 50 years. You may need to get screened earlier if you have colon disease or a family history of colorectal cancer.
• Do not smoke. Nicotine can damage blood vessels and make it more difficult to manage your colorectal cancer. Smoking also increases your risk for new or returning cancer and delays healing after treatment. Do not use e-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco in place of cigarettes or to help you quit. They still contain nicotine. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently smoke and need help quitting.
• Limit or do not drink alcohol as directed. Men should limit alcohol to two drinks per day. Women should limit alcohol to one drink per day. A drink of alcohol is 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1½ ounces of liquor.
• Drink liquids as directed. Ask how much liquid to drink each day and which liquids are best for you. If you have nausea or diarrhea from cancer treatment, extra liquids may help decrease your risk for dehydration.
• Eat healthy foods. Healthy foods include fruits, vegetables, whole-grain breads, low-fat dairy products, beans, lean meats and fish. You may need to change what you eat during treatment. Do not eat foods or drink liquids that cause gas, such as cabbage, beans, onions or soda. A dietitian may help to plan the best meals and snacks for you.
• Exercise as directed. Ask about the best exercise plan for you. Exercise may improve your energy levels and appetite.

Call 911 for any of the following:

• Your arm or leg feels warm, tender and painful. It may look swollen and red.
• You have chest pain when you take a deep breath or cough.
• You suddenly feel lightheaded and short of breath.
• You cough up blood.

When should I contact my healthcare provider?

• You have a fever.
• You cannot control your diarrhea or constipation.
• You vomit multiple times and cannot keep any food or liquids down.
• Your pain is worse or does not go away after you take your pain medicine.
• You see blood in your bowel movements.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.