What is Colorectal Cancer?
Colon cancer is cancer of the large intestine (colon), the lower part of the digestive system. Rectal cancer is cancer of the last 15 centimeters of the colon. Together, they’re often referred to as colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer is the third most common malignancy worldwide, as well as in the Philippines.
Two-thirds of colorectal cancer are located somewhere in the colon. This type of cancer is a leading cause of cancer death, although it is curable when detected and treated early.
Most cases of colon cancer begin as small noncancerous (benign) clumps of cells called adenomatous polyps. Over time, some of these polyps become colon cancers. Polyps may be small and produce few, if any, symptoms.
Regular screening tests can help prevent colon cancer by identifying polyps before they become cancerous.