Colon & Rectal Cancer

Cancer that begins in the colon is called colon cancer, and cancer that begins in the rectum is called rectal cancer. Cancer that starts in either of these organs may also be called colorectal cancer.

In the United States, colorectal cancer is the fourth most common cancer in men, after skin cancer, prostate cancer, and lung cancer. It is also the fourth most common cancer in women, after skin cancer, breast cancer, and lung cancer.

At Arizona Oncology, we understand that a new diagnosis of either colon cancer or rectal cancer can be overwhelming. Our team of experts will arrange your consultation quickly so you can get the information you need. We will help you and your family, make individualized treatment decisions in partnership with our medical team. During this process, you will gain the knowledge and confidence to help manage your cancer and continue with routine activities of daily life.

Review this section’s important information about colorectal cancer diagnosis, staging, and treatment options, as well as colon cancer patient and survivor resources as you prepare for an appointment with your oncologist. After reviewing these sections, ask your cancer care team any additional questions that you may have about your individual situation.

Colorectal cancer screening is recommended for everyone starting at age 45 using one or more common tests. (Maybe sooner if are you have certain risk factors.) If the results of the cancer screening tests show suspicion of colon or rectal cancer, further tests will likely be required. There are several steps in the diagnosis process including:

• Physical Exam
• Blood Tests
• Colonoscopy
• Biopsy
• Imaging Tests

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If you receive a colon or rectal cancer diagnosis you’ll be referred to an oncologist who will plan treatment based on the stage of the cancer, which ranges from Stage 0 to Stage IV. They will evaluate the current test results and may request some additional tests to determine the stage — or how far the cancer has spread. These tests might include:

• Blood tests
• Colonoscopy
• Endorectal ultrasound
• Chest X-ray
• CT scan

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Based on the stage, your overall health, and other factors of your colon or rectal cancer, you and your cancer care team will discuss options for your treatment. Those options can include:

• Surgery
• Chemotherapy
• Biologic Therapy
• Radiation Therapy

The oncologists at Arizona Oncology will help you decide on a plan that’s right for you.

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You could be at risk of developing colorectal cancer if you have a family history of the disease.

Our cancer genetic experts at Arizona Oncology are here to guide you through cancer genetic counseling. Find out if you could benefit from genetic testing for hereditary colon cancer syndromes, and if you should take advantage of the Genetic Risk Evaluation & Testing Program.

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Local support groups and classes, genetic risk testing, and financial counseling are just some of the areas the specialists at Arizona Oncology can assist you with during your colorectal cancer care.

We encourage you to learn more and take advantage of our cancer support groups and disease-specific organizations, including the ColonCancer Alliance.

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Arizona Oncology offers an integrated team-oriented approach to provide you with the best possible care during your colorectal cancer journey. We are also eager to explain the facts and answer your questions at every step of the way. Our team of dedicated, highly-trained physicians and staff are committed to providing the highest quality compassionate care to our patients. We have offices located throughout the state where you will receive state-of-the-art treatment in a caring and comfortable environment close to home, work, and family. Visit our locations page for a complete list of locations and to find the office most convenient for you.

Visit the National Cancer Institute where this information and more can be found about Colon and Rectal Cancer or ask your cancer care team questions about your individual situation.

Lo que usted necesita saber sobre el cáncer de colon y recto.