Can early detection of colorectal cancer increase my chance of survival?

Aurora Health Care

Most colorectal cancers develop from polyps. Detecting polyps early and removing them can prevent cancer from developing. Undergoing recommended screening improves your chance of detecting colon cancer early when it is more likely to be cured. Fortunately, the survival rate has been increasing. Several factors account for this:

More polyps are found through screening before they develop into cancer.
More colorectal cancers are found early, when treatment can be most effective.
Treatments for colorectal cancer have improved tremendously.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Gastrointestinal Cancer

Caused by tumors that grow slowly in our digestive system, gastrointestinal cancers can affect the appendix, stomach, small intestine, colon and rectum. With no known cause, the tumors that cause these cancers usually do not show symptoms until after they have spread. See your doctor if you have shortness of breath, abdominal discomfort or bloating, rectal bleeding or bowel obstruction. You are at greater risk for developing gastrointestinal cancers if you have a family history of the cancers, are older than 50 or have other gastric problems, such as gastritis. Tumors called carcinoids and non-carcinoids cause cancer in the gastrointestinal tract, which houses the stomach and the intestines. Most carcinoid tumors are found in the tip of the appendix, which is attached to the large intestines. Tumors are often found when a person is treated for appendicitis or a doctor notices it accidentally in a CT scan. Aggressive treatments, such as surgery, are needed for large tumors.

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