What is colorectal cancer (CRC)?
CRC is a cancerous tumor that originates in the colon (also called the large intestine) or the rectum.
What are the signs & symptoms of colorectal cancer?
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A change in bowel habits like diarrhea or constipation
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A feeling that you need to have a bowel movement that’s not relieved (gone) by having one
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Rectal bleeding with bright red blood
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Blood in the stool (poop), which might make the stool look dark brown or black
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Cramping or abdominal (belly) pain
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Weakness and fatigue
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Unintended weight loss
What causes CRC?
CRC begins as a colon polyp. Colon polyps are small growths found on the inside of the colon or rectum. They grow very slowly and are usually caused by the risk factors stated below. These polyps are NOT cancerous but do have the potential to grow into colon or rectal cancer later on.
Are there different types of colon polyps? Yes!
Adenomatous Polyps (also called precancerous polyps)
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Benign (NON-cancerous)
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Range in sizes
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Can grow anywhere in the colon or rectum
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Can POTENTIALLY grow into colon or rectal cancer if the polyp is not removed
Hyperplastic Polyps
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Benign (NON-cancerous)
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Range in sizes
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Can grow anywhere in the colon or rectum
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Will NEVER turn into colon or rectal cancer
What can increase your risk of colon polyps & CRC?
Modifiable factors (things you CAN change):
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Being overweight
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Type 2 Diabetes
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Diet (red & processed meats)
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Smoking
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Alcohol (moderate to heavy use)
Non-modifiable factors (things you CANNOT change):
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Age
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Race (Native Americans & African Americans at highest risk)
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Gender (men tend to have an increased risk)
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Personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's or Ulcerative Colitis)
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Family history of CRC or colon polyps
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Inherited syndromes like Lynch Syndrome
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