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Topic of the Month: Colorectal Cancer
Conversations About Colorectal Cancer on Feb. 16
The Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University and the Colon Cancer Alliance will host Conversations about Colorectal Cancer: Finding HOPE (Healing, Options, Peer Support, Education) in Your Community on Saturday, February 16, from 9:00 a.m. - 1:15 p.m. in the 3rd floor conference center of Northwestern Memorial Hospital's Feinberg Pavilion, 251 E. Huron, Chicago. No charge.
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What is Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer is a term used to refer to cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. Colon and rectal cancers begin in the digestive system, also called the GI (gastrointestinal) system. This is where food is processed to create energy and rid the body of solid waste matter (stool).
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Prevention of Colorectal Cancer
The following protective factors may decrease the risk of colorectal cancer:
Hormone replacement therapy: Studies have shown that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) that includes both estrogen and progesterone lowers the risk of colorectal cancer in postmenopausal women. HRT with estrogen alone does not lower the risk. However, hormone use may increase the risk of breast cancer, heart disease, and blood clots.
Polyp removal: Most colorectal polyps are adenomas, which may develop into cancer. The removal of polyps in the colon and rectum may lower the risk of colorectal cancer. Bleeding and infection sometimes occur after polyps are removed during colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy.
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Diagnosing Colorectal Cancer
To help find the cause of any symptoms you might be experiencing, your doctor will perform a physical exam, evaluate your medical history and risk factors, and may order one or more of the following diagnostic tests:
- X-rays of the large intestine (such as the DCBE, described above), can reveal polyps or other changes
- A sigmoidoscopy lets the doctor see inside the rectum and the lower colon and remove polyps or other abnormal tissue for examination under a microscope.
- A colonoscopy lets the doctor see inside the rectum and the entire colon and remove polyps or other abnormal tissue for examination under a microscope.
- A polypectomy is the removal of a polyp during a sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy.
- A biopsy is the removal of a tissue sample for examination under a microscope by a pathologist to make a diagnosis.
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How is Colorectal Cancer Treated?
There are many options to consider when it comest to treating colorectal cancer. Your doctor will advise you on the best approach to take. Treatments may include the following, alone, or in combination: Surgery, Chemotherapy, Radiation or Biological Therapy. As with many cancers, a team approach to treatment is often used.
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