Abdominal Pain

Barrett's Esophagus

Capsule Endoscopy

Colorectal Cancer

Constipation

Crohn's Disease

Diarrhea

Diverticular Disease

Food Intolerance

Gallstones

Gastroesophageal Reflux

Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Hemochromatosis

Inflamatory Bowel Disease

Intestinal Gas

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Liver Disease

Rectal Disease

Ulcer Disease

Ulcerative Colitis

Colorectal Cancer is the second most common cancer killer in the United States, causing an estimated 55,000 deaths each year. More than 138,000 new cases of colorectal cancer are diagnosed each year. Men and women are equally affected by this disease.

Colorectal cancer is cancer of the colon and rectum, two parts of the digestive system also known as the large intestine. All colon cancers arise from polyps; abnormal growths on the wall of the colon that may become cancerous over time. If polyps are identified at a very early stage, they can be removed before they become cancerous. Complications of colorectal cancer can be reduced or even prevented with the simple step of regular screening. The screening program recommended by the American Cancer Society includes an annual fecal occult blood test and a screening flexible sigmoidoscopy every 3-5 years for all Americans over the age of 50. Those individuals with a high risk for colorectal cancer because of prior cancer, a family history of cancer, or a history of chronic digestive condition that predisposes them to cancer, should undergo regular surveillance known as colonoscopy. A recent study in the New England Journal of Medicine stated that more than 90 percent of lives could be saved through early detection of colorectal cancer.

Who is At Risk for Colorectal Cancer?
Women are just as likely as men to develop colorectal cancer. Colon cancer is most common after age 50, but the chances of developing this disease increase after age 40. Close relatives of a person who has had colorectal cancer, or persons with one of several chronic digestive conditions have a higher than average risk of developing colorectal cancer.

What are the Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer?
	Frequent gas pains
	Blood in or on the stool
	Diarrhea or Constipation
	A feeling that the bowel has not emptied completely

Information Courtesy of
The American College of Gastroenterology