Colorectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer in the United States, accounting for an estimated 100,000 new diagnoses this year. Although the condition is rare in comparison to other types of cancer, colorectal cancer can be life-threatening. Understanding your risk for colorectal cancer and signs of the condition can improve treatment outcomes.
What Is Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer develops in the colon and rectum. Depending on the location of the tumor, your physician may classify the condition as colon cancer or rectal cancer. Like other types of cancer, colorectal cancer develops from abnormal cells that multiply and spread to surrounding tissues.
Am I at Risk for Colorectal Cancer?
Researchers have found that certain risk factors do exist for colorectal cancer, but almost anyone can develop the condition. Studies indicate that you may be at higher risk if you:
- Are overweight or obese
- Have a lifestyle that includes little to no activity
- Smoke
- Use alcohol frequently
- Eat large amounts of red meat and processed meats
- Have a history of inflammatory bowel disease, colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer
- Are at least 50 years old
- Have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes
- Have a medical syndrome that links to colorectal cancer
How Is Colorectal Cancer Treated?
The goal of treatment for colorectal cancer is to remove the tumor to prevent cancer from spreading to surrounding tissues. This may involve:
- Surgery
- Radiation treatments
- Immunotherapy
- Chemotherapy
- Embolization or ablation of the abnormal tissue
What Is the Long-Term Prognosis After Treatment?
After the cancerous tissue is removed, you may be at risk for developing new colorectal cancer tumors or other types of cancer. We recommend that you schedule routine checkups at our cancer center to monitor your progress and facilitate the detection of any new cancerous cells.
Learn More About Colorectal Cancer. Contact Summit Healthcare.
To learn more about colorectal cancer, telemedicine, emergency treatments and our other services, contact Summit Healthcare today. You can also contact our Medical Center in Snowflake, Arizona, at (928) 536-7519. You can reach our Family Medicine locations at (928) 536-5858 in Snowflake, (928) 537-5437 in Lakeside and (928) 532-3926 in Show Low. We also have two clinics that can be reached at (928) 367-6688 in Pinetop.
