Colorectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer diagnosed in men and women in the U.S. Colorectal cancers start to form in cells that produce mucus and other fluids inside the colon and rectum.
The American Cancer Society recommends that adults age 45 and over at average risk get screened for colorectal cancer.
AAlthough colorectal cancer may occur at any age, more than 90 percent of patients are over 40 at diagnosis. Starting at 40, the risk doubles every 10 years. In addition to age, other high-risk factors include a family history of colorectal cancer and polyps and a personal history of ulcerative colitis, colon polyps, or cancer of other organs.
Colorectal cancer is unique in that it is preventable through early detection of precancerous polyps. Even when caught as cancer, colorectal cancer can be curable as long as it's in the earlier stages.
However, colorectal cancer is still the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S., which is why Sylvester encourages adults who are age 45 and older to get regularly screened for colon cancer. Those considered at increased risk should begin screening at an even earlier age.
Conditions and Treatments
- Anal and Rectal Cancers
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Cloacogenic Carcinoma
Adenocarcinoma
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Melanoma - Colon Cancers (Adenocarcinoma)
Carcinoid Tumors
Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors
Small Cell Carcinoma
Lymphoma
Peritoneal Carcinomatosis
Why Choose Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center?
Sylvester is an NCI-designated cancer center. The National Cancer Institute has recognized Sylvester for its outstanding work, treating patients in its clinics and hospitals, reaching out to medically underserved communities with innovative prevention strategies, and conducting laboratory research.
Designated a Center of Excellence. The team of physicians treating patients with colorectal cancer at Sylvester has been accredited by the American College of Surgeons as a center of excellence in the management of rectal cancer.
Patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer treated at Sylvester have survival up to 19 percent higher than the national average for both early- and late-stage disease. This expertise results in longer life, higher quality of life, and greater hope for a life without cancer.
Advanced radiation oncology tools. Sylvester was the first medical center in Florida, and the fourth in the country to offer resonance magnetic-guided radiation therapy. Our team is a leader in that domain. Our RapidArc® radiotherapy system delivers intensity-modulated external radiation therapy (IMRT). These tools lead to more efficient and effective treatments, shorter treatment times, pinpoint accuracy in tumor targeting and less damage to surrounding healthy tissue. Finally, our radiation oncology department also offers proton beam therapy in our state-of-the-art Dwoskin Proton Therapy Center.
More cancer clinical trials than any other South Florida hospital. We offer ease of access and the newest ways to treat and potentially cure your cancer.
Multidisciplinary care teams with nationally-recognized expertise. Your care team is made up of experts in your exact type of cancer, and every single aspect of it, and they talk to each other.
High-tech imaging expertise using the most advanced technology available. We are able to distinguish between normal and abnormal findings that can be misdiagnosed; then work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan for the right diagnosis.
Questions? We're here to help.
Our appointment specialists are ready to help you find what you need. Contact us today.