What is Colon Cancer?
Colon cancer is cancer of the large intestine that forms in the lining of the colon. Most cases of colon cancer begin as small clumps of cells called colon polyps. While these polyps start out as benign, if not discovered and removed, usually during a colonoscopy, they can become cancerous and develop into colon cancer.
The Reality of Colon Cancer
In the United States, colon cancer is the second deadliest form of cancer. Each year about 150,000 people will be diagnosed with colon cancer, and more than 53,000 people will die from the disease, according to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance.
Colon cancer is both preventable and highly treatable when detected early. There are a number of screening options to check for colon cancer, but a colonoscopy is considered the gold standard. Ask your doctor about which screening methods are right for you.
Treatments for Colon Cancer
The three primary treatment options available for colon cancer are surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Treatment options for colon cancer depend on the stage and location of the cancer, whether the cancer has recurred and the patient’s general health. If the cancer is small, early stage and localized in a polyp, it is possible it may all be removed during a colonoscopy.
Your physician can advise you on the best course of action to treat your cancer.
Find a Gastroenterologist
Locate a physician who performs a variety of colon cancer screenings near you.
