Facts and Questions

What's the difference between colorectal and colon cancer?

Colorectal cancer refers to a cancer that's in the colon and the rectum, while colon cancer only refers to cancer in the colon.

(NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms, n.d.)

Is it possible for anyone to get colorectal cancer or is it something that only middle aged adults can catch?

Although it's more likely that older adults could get colorectal cancer, anyone could get the disease regardless of their age.

What can I do to avoid getting colorectal cancer?

There are many ways you can avoid getting colorectal cancer. Make sure you limit how much you smoke and drink and maintain a good diet and excercise plan. Doing all of these can help ensure that you're safer from catching colon cancer.

What should I do if I believe I might have colorectal cancer?

The first thing you should do is to visit your doctor and get tested. That way you can verify whether or not you have the disease. Doing this will also allow the doctors to catch the cancer while it's still in its early stage.

How long does colorectal cancer treatment last?

The amount of time treatment for colorectal cancer lasts depends on the type of treatment. Chemotherapy, for example, can last between three to six months.

(Colon Cancer Treatment, by Stage | How to Treat Colon Cancer, n.d.-b)

Meanwhile, radiation therapy can take up to seven weeks.

(External Radiation Therapy, 2022)

When should people get screened for colon cancer?

Typically, it's important that people between the ages of 45 and 75 should frequently test themselves for colon cancer, but to also get a screening if you see any signs or symptoms.

(Screening for Colorectal Cancer, 2024)

Is colorectal cancer genetic?

Like many other diseases, colorectal cancer is genetic so if your family has history of contracting the disease, it is possible that you could get it too.

(Causes of Colorectal Cancer | Is Colon Cancer Hereditary?, n.d.-b)

What can I do to spread the word about colorectal cancer?

There are lots of things you can do to spread the word. You can post about the disease online, create media that highlights those suffering from the disease, donate to organizations that are dedicated to supporting those in need, and so much more.

How long have we known about colorectal cancer?

Reports of colon cancer go back 110 years ago in 1913, when Dr. Aldred Warthin recorded it, along with endometrial and gastric cancers, while studying a family in 1815. Additional research also shows that the earliest cases of colon cancer go all the way back to the Ptolemaic period.

(Colorectal Cancer Historical Perspective - Wikidoc, n.d.-b)