| Colorectal Cancer Basics |
|
Just the Facts…Colorectal Cancer (pdf)
Your best chance for surviving colorectal cancer is detecting it early. When found early, there is nearly a 90% chance for cure.
Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) (pdf)
Learn more about this genetic condition that increases the risk of colon cancer. (Español)
|
| Colorectal Cancer Treatment at M. D. Anderson |
|
Colorectal colon and rectal cancer patients are treated in our Gastrointestinal Center.
|
| Colorectal Cancer Prevention, Symptoms & Screening |
|
Common Colorectal Cancer Symptoms
Colon cancer and cancer of the rectum can usually be successfully cured when detected early enough. Don't be shy about telling your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Bleeding from the rectum
- A change in bowel movement pattern that continues over time
- General discomfort in the abdomen (frequent gas pains, cramping pain, feeling of bloating or fullness)
- Vomiting
- Constant fatigue
- Chronic constipation
M. D. Anderson's Screening Guidelines
(Updated December 2006)
Beginning at age 50, men and women should follow ONE of the five examination schedules below.
- Colonoscopy - Every 10 years (preferred by M. D. Anderson).
- Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) – Every year a take-home multiple sample FOBT or fecal immunochemical test (FIT, which also is a take-home test) should be taken.
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy – Every five years.
- Annual FOBT or FIT AND flexible sigmoidoscopy every five years. Having both of these tests is recommended over either test alone.
- Double-contrast barium enema – Every five years.
All positive tests (FOBT, FIT, flexible sigmoidoscopy, barium enema) should be followed up with colonoscopy.
|
| Colorectal Cancer Education & Support |
|
Patient Story
- Sheila Lau: "God gave me a second chance, and I appreciate everyday that He gives me."
Survivor Support
|
