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Colorectal Cancer Health Center

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Look inside colorectal cancer.
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Colorectal Cancer Overview Slideshow

Colon cancer and cancer of the rectum usually begin as a small polyp. While most colon polyps are benign, some do become cancerous. Colon cancer symptoms may include a change in bowel habits or bleeding, but usually colon cancer strikes without symptoms. That’s why it’s important to get a colon cancer screening test, such as a colonoscopy. If the cancer is found early, the doctor can use surgery, radiation, and/or chemotherapy for effective treatment.

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Latest Headlines
Early Morning Colon Cancer Tests Work Best
Colon cancer screening exams may be more effective if done very early in the day rather than later, yielding more polyps per patient, says a new study.

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Understanding Colorectal Cancer - Symptoms

What Are the Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer?

In its early stage, colorectal cancer usually produces no symptoms. The most likely warning signs include:

  • Changes in bowel movements, including persistent constipation or diarrhea, a feeling of not being able to empty the bowel completely, or rectal bleeding
  • Dark patches of blood in or on stool; or long, thin, "pencil stools"
  • Abdominal discomfort or bloating
  • Unexplained fatigue, or loss of appetite or weight
webMD Video

Show or hide information about video: Chemotherapy Side Effects   Chemotherapy Side Effects

48 x 48 Chemo Side Effects

In addition to taking drugs that combat nausea during chemotherapy treatments, there are simple things patients can do.

Watch Video: Chemotherapy Side Effects (opens in a new window)

Show or hide information about video: Colon Reconstruction   Colon Reconstruction

Show or hide information about video: Colon Cancer Blood Test   Colon Cancer Blood Test

Show or hide information about video: Alternative Therapies   Alternative Therapies

Show or hide information about video: Cancer and Exercise   Cancer and Exercise