Cancer Colorectal

Colorectal cancer is cancer that originates in the colon or rectum. It is also known as colon cancer. The colon is part of the large intestine. The rectum is the canal that connects the colon with the anus. This cancer occurs when malignant cells develop in the colon or rectum. Most colorectal cancers begin with abnormal growths known as precancerous polyps.

Among the symptoms are: blood in stool, abdominal pain, stomach aches, and weight loss for no apparent reason.

Early detection tests such as occult blood tests, sigmoidoscopies, and colonoscopies can help detect polyps before they become cancerous. Early detection can help find colorectal cancer at an early stage, when it can often be cured if treated.

The risk of contracting colorectal cancer increases with age. Over 90% of the cases occur in people 50 and over. Learn about the risk factors by solving the following word search puzzle.