Colon Cancer Information

Colorectal Cancer (also known as Colon Cancer or Rectal Cancer) is cancer of the colon and rectum.  It is the third most diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States.  It is equally common in men and women.  With recommended screening, this cancer can be prevented (by removing polyps before they become cancerous)  or detected early, when it can be easily and successfully treated.  Most colon cancer deaths are preventable by early detection.

If you are at average risk for colorectal cancer, start having regular screenings at age 50.  If you are at greater risk, you may need to begin regular screening at an earlier age.  The best time to get screened is before any symptoms appear.  Use the information below to help you discuss screening options with your physician.

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Colon Cancer Patient Self-Assessment Survey

Answer the following six questions to determine if you are at risk of developing polyps or colorectal cancer:

1. Are you 50 years or older?
2. Have you had a colorectal polyp or cancer in the past?
3. Has anyone in your family had polyps or colorectal cancer?
4. Do you eat more fat than fiber?
5. Have you been diagnosed with an inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn's Disease or Ulcerative Colitis?
6. Have you noticed persistent changes in your bowel habits?

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If you answered "yes" to one or more of the questions above, you are at risk for developing colorectal polyps or cancer.  Please contact your physician to discuss the results of this survey, other risk factors and to review the screening options that are best available to you.

Note:  The Colon Cancer Patient Self-Assessment Survey is NOT intended to diagnose colorectal cancer or polyps, but is used as a tool to determine risk factors for colorectal cancer.