The colon and rectum are parts of the body's digestive system. They function to
remove nutrients from the food we eat, and to store waste until it passes out of
the body. Together, the colon and rectum form a long, muscular tube called the
large intestine (also called the large bowel). The colon is the first 6 feet
of the large intestine, and the rectum is the last 8 to 10 inches. More information
is available at the
National Cancer Institute.
Colorectal cancer is cancer that develops in the colon or rectum. It almost always
develops from polyps (abnormal growths) in the colon or rectum. Screening tests can
find polyps, so they can be removed before they turn into cancer. Screening tests can
also find colorectal cancer early, when it is a highly treatable and often curable
disease. Colorectal cancer doesn't always cause symptoms, especially in the early
stages when it is most treatable, making screening especially important.
Colorectal cancer is the third most frequently diagnosed cancer in New Mexico
and second leading cause of cancer death. Studies suggest that many of these deaths
and new cases may be preventable with appropriate cancer screening. Unfortunately,
less than half of New Mexicans aged 50 and older have been recently screened for
colorectal cancer. Not surprisingly, more than half of the colorectal cancers diagnosed
in New Mexico are found at an advanced stage – when these cancers are least
curable.
Because colorectal cancer can be prevented with appropriate screening, adults at
average risk for colorectal cancer should discuss screening with their physicians
beginning at 50 years of age. Individuals who may be at higher risk for colorectal
cancer should talk with their physician about beginning screening at even younger ages.
Last updated on 01/20/2009 01:04 pm.
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