What Is Colon Cancer & Rectal Cancer?

Colon cancer is cancer that occurs in the colon (the large intestine). Rectal cancer is cancer that occurs in the rectum – which is the bag-like organ that holds fecal matter before defecation. 

Diagnosing Colon Cancer & Rectal Cancer

First, we conduct a comprehensive medical evaluation of your colorectal and gastrointestinal tract needs. We recommend that you come in for annual check-ups after the age of 45.

Then, we use a combination of techniques such as colonoscopy, blood & stool-based tests to screen for colorectal cancer. 

When cancer is diagnosed, we often have to order additional tests including labs, CT scans, and/or MRI.  

Who Is at Risk for Colorectal Cancer?

Cancers develop when cellular activity in the human body goes awry. Usually, cells divide and form new cells when existing cells need to be replaced. Sometimes, your cells start to divide at a very fast pace, even when there is no need for new cells. These extra cells clump together and form masses, a condition called cancer.   

Colorectal cancers occur in the same way. Your risk of developing colon & rectal cancer increases if you: 

• Are over the age of 50. 
• Have a genetic history of colorectal cancer in the family. 
• Have a personal history of adenomatous polyps in the colon. 
• Are diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease. 
• Have been diagnosed with other forms of cancer. 
• Have a diet that is high in sugar, fat, and processed meat; and low in fruits and vegetables. 
• Are obese. 
• Have low physical activity. 
• Are a chain smoker or heavy drinker.  
• Are of Hispanic or African descent (these cancers are more common in these ethnic groups).
  

Survival Rates for Colon & Rectal Cancers 

If diagnosed early, when cancer hasn’t spread beyond the colon or the rectum, the survival rates for both colon cancer & rectal cancer are high. Thanks to screening efforts, colon cancer and rectal cancer can be identified in the early stages and treated with minimally invasive techniques such as laparoscopic surgery or robotic surgery. 

Our team of colorectal surgeons at Huntington Health will be with you every step of the way. We have extensive experience working with patients of all ages, genders, and races. We use state-of-the-art technology to evaluate your health, diagnose your condition, and get you onto the right treatment quickly, to help you recover faster. 

Signs of Cancer in the Colon & Rectum 

Time is of the essence when it comes to treating colon & rectal cancer. Please contact your doctor if you notice the following symptoms: 

• Sudden & persistent change in your bowel movements, like diarrhea or constipation or change in shape of stool. 
• Severe abdominal pain and cramping. 
• Pain in the rectum during defecation. 
• Bleeding during defecation or blood in stools. 
• Feeling of fullness in the bowels, despite regular bowel movement. 
• Sudden unexpected weight loss. 
• Excessive weakness & fatigue. 
• Nausea & vomiting. 

Types of Colorectal Cancers 

Depending on where they are formed, colon & rectal cancers can be classified into five types: 

• Colorectal Adenocarcinoma (most common) 
• Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors 
• Primary Colorectal Lymphomas 
• Gastrointestinal Carcinoid Tumors 
• Leiomyosarcomas 

Colorectal Adenocarcinoma 

Adenocarcinomas are tumors that start in the mucous-lining of organs. These occur on the inner wall/lining of the colon, rectum, or both. This is the most common type of colorectal cancer, accounting for 95% of all cases. 

Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors 

These are soft tissue sarcomas that usually occur in the gastrointestinal tract. They are common in the small intestine and the rectum, but they rarely form in the colon. 

Primary Colorectal Lymphomas 

Lymphoma is cancer that occurs in the lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cells that provide immunity to the body. Since the lymphatic system works with the digestive system to absorb lipids, this type of cancer can sometimes form in the gastrointestinal tract. This is a very rare colorectal cancer affecting only 0.5% of patients. 

Gastrointestinal Carcinoid Tumors 

This is cancer that develops in the neuroendocrine cells, which are nerve cells that control hormones’ production. They are usually found in the cells of the small intestine. However, 1% of colorectal tumors are gastrointestinal carcinoid tumors. 

Leiomyosarcomas 

This is a type of cancer that affects smooth muscles. Both the colon and rectum have different layers of muscles that facilitate waste movement to the anus. In very rare cases, this layer of muscle can develop leiomyosarcomas. 

Our colorectal cancer specialists at Huntington Health have experience treating all types of rectal and colon cancers in Pasadena. You can trust us for premium-quality care. 

Stages of Colorectal Cancer 

Knowing which stage your cancer diagnosis is will give you the information you need to make lifestyle changes that can supplement the cancer treatment. 

Stage 1 – During this stage, the colon/rectum cancer will have permeated the colon/rectum’s lining and may have affected the muscle inside. 

Stage 2 – At this stage, the cancerous tumors will have moved deeper into the colon/rectum walls. Most of the colon/rectum might be affected, but the nearby lymph nodes will still be healthy. 

Stage 3 – During this stage, the colon/rectum cancer will have spread to the lymph nodes in the colorectal region. 

Stage 4 – At this stage, the colon/rectum cancer has metastasized and spread to other parts of the body, most commonly the liver or lungs. 

At Huntington Health, our specialists monitor cancer progression very carefully to ensure that the right treatments are being administered at the right time. Our priority is to prevent the progression of colorectal cancer to the later stages and to curb the disease at the early stage.