Colorectal cancer, or CRC, is a disease of the colon or rectum, which are parts of the digestive system. Unlike most cancers, colorectal cancer is often preventable with screening and highly treatable when detected early. Colorectal cancer is the second most common cancer in the US among men and women combined. But it is highly treatable when it is discovered early.
Most cases of colorectal cancer occur in people ages 45 and older. Each year, about 150,000 Americans are diagnosed with this disease and more than 50,000 die.
Colorectal cancer often develops without symptoms. When they occur, symptoms may include:
- Blood in or on stool
- Persistent unusual bowel movements like constipation or diarrhea
- Stomach pain, aches, or cramps that don’t go away
- Losing weight for no reason
If you have a personal or family history of colorectal cancer, any symptoms or if you are over 50 call your doctor and get screened. If you need a referral to a doctor to assist you, please reach out to us.
