What Is Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer goes by many names, including colon cancer, rectal cancer and bowel cancer. It is characterized by unchecked cell growth and tumors in the colon or rectum. Malignant cases can spread throughout the body, making it a leading cause of cancer death in both men and women. Screening by colonoscopy provides a pivotal role in prevention. Screening allows us to identify and remove small benign growths called polyps, before they may transform into colorectal cancer. Catching this cancer early also plays a massive role in prognosis, another reason why a colonoscopy is so important.
What Are The Causes?
While anyone can get colorectal cancer, some contributing factors may include age, a history of cancer, a family history, and a high animal protein and saturated fat diet. Steps you can take to reduce your chances of getting this or other cancers can include, for example, physical activity, losing weight if you are overweight, and quitting smoking.
How Can Colorectal Cancer Be Treated?
Symptoms can include bloody stool, sudden weight loss, fatigue, constipation/diarrhea, a regular feeling of fullness, or a lump in the abdomen. If you suspect that you have this form of cancer or if you have a number of the risk factors, you should consider coming in for a colonoscopy. We perform screening, diagnostic and therapeutic colonoscopies at Athens-Limestone Hospital, the ALH Surgical Tower and the Madison Outpatient Surgery Center. Removal of pre-cancerous polyps will greatly reduce the chance of developing colon cancer. Likewise, a colonoscopy will improve our chances of detecting possible cancer early which can make treatment much more effective.
Colorectal Cancer Treatment in Alabama With Surgical Services of Athens
At Surgical Services of Athens, we know that surgery can be a serious concern. For this reason, we urge you to contact us for all your surgical needs. We combine decades of experience with an understanding of the most modern surgical techniques to give you the best treatment possible. If you need treatment for possible colorectal cancer in Athens, Madison, Huntsville or the surrounding area, contact us. Just call 256-216-6500 or submit the contact form below.
