Understanding Colorectal Cancer

Understanding colorectal cancer
Colorectal cancer - more commonly known as colon cancer and rectal cancer - usually starts as a growth on the inside walls of your colon. Not all growths are malignant; however, if a polyp is malignant and left untreated, it may spread through the colon and the rectum to other organs and lymph nodes. 

Who is at risk?
Although colorectal cancer can strike anyone, the following groups have a higher risk of this disease:

• People over the age of 50
• Someone with a personal or family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
• People with a diet high in fat and low in fiber
• Those diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease
• People who are obese or who smoke

What are the symptoms?
Colorectal cancer in its’ early stages has little to no symptoms. However, the following are common symptoms that you should watch for:

• Changes in bowel movement, including chronic constipation, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding
• Dark patches of blood in or on your stool; or long, thin pencil stools
• Reoccurring abdominal discomfort or bloating
• Unexplained fatigue or loss of appetite

Have you or a loved one been diagnosed with cancer?
Whether it’s colorectal cancer or any other type of disease, dealing with a diagnosis of this magnitude can be difficult. Talk with a professional at the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to help sort through your feelings. Click here for details.