Colorectal cancer

You might be at a higher risk of developing colon, rectal or anal cancer if you:

• Are an active tobacco user
• Are Black or of Eastern European descent
• Are older than 60 years old
• Are overweight or obese
• Drink more than one drink a day
• Eat a diet high in red meat and low in fiber
• Get less than 30 minutes of physical activity a day
• Have a family history of colorectal cancer
• Have an inherited syndrome, such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or Lynch syndrome
• Have inflammatory bowel disease, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease
• Have Type 2 diabetes

In many cases there are no obvious symptoms with colon cancer, however some can be warning signs and should be discussed with your physician. These include:

• Any major change in bowel habits
• Constant fatigue or tiredness
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Feeling bowels do not totally empty
• Frequent gas pain or bloating
• General abdominal discomfort
• New onset anemia
• Red, black or tarry blood in stool
• Stools that are narrower than usual
• Unintentional weight loss

If you or a family member have been diagnosed with colorectal cancer or undergone genetic testing that has revealed you are at risk, it's a good idea to undergo health exams to keep yourself safe. We provide several diagnostic services, including:

• Barium enema
• Biopsy
• Colonoscopy
• Digital rectal exam
• Fecal occult blood test
• Imaging services
• Sigmoidoscopy
• Virtual colonoscopy
• X-ray of the large intestine

When caught early, cancer can be more easily treatable, so regular exams are very important. Our team of experts and specialists is committed to maintaining your dignity and comfort as well as your health. The American Cancer Society recommends annual colonoscopies starting at 45 years old. This screening requires a referral form from your doctor. If you don't have a doctor, find a physician online or call (615) 562-1656 for a free physician referral.

If a standard diagnostic test returns with concerning or abnormal results, there are a variety of treatment options. Although primarily used to diagnose, colonoscopies can also be performed to remove malignant and benign polyps from the colon.

If needed, you may be offered and undergo a colectomy, a surgical procedure designed to remove all or part of the colon. This is intended to prevent the spread of certain diseases. If lymph nodes are involved in your condition, chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be an option for follow-up cancer care.

Your personalized care plan will most likely include a combination of treatments and therapies tailored to your unique health needs.

Dealing with a cancer diagnosis can be extremely isolating, but you are not alone. There are many cancer support groups in the region that are designed to provide you with guidance, friendship and peace of mind. We invite you to use our askSARAH helpline or ask your nurse navigator for more information regarding support in your area.