What is Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer is cancer that forms in the tissue lining the surface of the large intestine (aka the colon). Your large intestine is connected to the small intestine at one end, and the anus at the other. The colon functions to absorb water from otherwise digested food forming waste known as stool. The last six to eight inches of the large intestine is called the rectum. Sometimes cancer develops in this area and is called rectal cancer. Altogether, cancers involving the large intestine are referred to as colorectal cancer.

At Concorde Medical Group, our board-certified doctors and advanced physicians are committed to providing both comprehensive and compassionate care to patients experiencing symptoms of colon cancer in NYC. Our expert gastroenterologists work alongside world class surgeons and oncologists in a team to provide you with the best colon cancer screening and treatment. If you are experiencing or have experienced symptoms of colon cancer, or are seeking colon cancer screening, contact our gastroenterology office in NYC and schedule an appointment today!

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According to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in men and women combined in the U.S. and is most often diagnosed in people who are in their mid-sixties.

Am I at Risk for Colon Cancer?

Everyone is at risk of colorectal cancer, which is why it is so important to begin screening at the age of 45. However, you may be at higher risk for colon cancer if you have:

• A family history of the disease
• Older age
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Lack of regular physical activity
• A low-fiber (fruits and vegetables) and high-fat diet
• A diet high in processed meats and red meat
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Smoking
• Excess alcohol consumption
• African-American race

What are the Warning Signs of Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer usually begins as small, asymptomatic, benign (aka non-cancerous), but precancerous growths inside of the colon are called polyps. Over time, polyps can grow and become colon cancer. Through regular colonoscopy screening, it is possible to find pre-cancerous polyps and remove them before they become problematic, thereby reducing the risk of colon cancer developing.

Importance of Regular Screening

If everyone followed colorectal cancer screening guidelines, at least 60 percent of U.S. colorectal cancer deaths could be avoided, according to the American Association for Cancer Research. Colon cancer is sometimes called the silent cancer because it may exist before symptoms are present. Screening can help look for cancer, and if it is found early, it may be easier to treat and even cured. If you wait until symptoms appear, the cancer may spread or be more difficult to treat. Colon cancer can be detected by several tests, so it is important to discuss with your doctor to see which test is right for you.

Types of Colorectal Cancer Screenings

There are multiple screening tests available for colorectal cancer, however not all are appropriate or recommended for all patients. It is important to talk to your doctor to determine which colorectal screening is right for you. Types of colorectal screenings include:

• Colonoscopy – the gold standard screening test
• Stool tests such as FIT or Cologuard
• CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy)
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy

Treatment for Colon Cancer

If colon cancer develops, treatment may involve one or more of the following:

• Surgery
• Radiation therapy
• Drug treatments – chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy

Your provider will talk with you to see which treatment of cancer is best for your case.