Colon, rectal, and anal cancers are the third most common type of cancers diagnosed in men and women in America. Colorectal cancers start to form in cells that produce mucus and other fluids inside the colon and rectum. Anal cancers vary based on the type of anal cells in which the cancer develops. Colon or rectal cancer can occur anywhere along the length of the colon, rectum, and anus.
The American Cancer Society recommends that adults age 45 and over at average risk get screened for colorectal cancer.
Although colorectal cancer may occur at any age, more than 90 percent of patients are over age 40. At this age, 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. Other kinds of cancer may be caught early, but are already cancers. Colorectal cancer is often preceded by precancerous lesions (polyps) that can be removed, preventing the cancer from developing. Even when caught as cancer, it can be curable as long as it's in the earlier stages.
However, it 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 an 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 conducting research in its laboratories, treating patients in its clinics and hospitals, and reaching out to medically underserved communities with innovative prevention strategies.
Colorectal cancer survival rates up to 19 percent higher than the national average for both early- and late-stage colorectal cancer. This expertise results in longer life, higher quality of life, and greater hope for a life without cancer.
Advanced radiation therapy options like ViewRay (one of just five centers nationwide) and RapidArc, offering intensity modulated external radiation therapy (IMRT). You get more efficient and effective treatments, shorter treatment times, pinpoint accuracy in targeting tumors, and less damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
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.