Colorectal cancer, a type of gastrointestinal cancer, occurs when a tumor grows in the lining of the large intestine. The large intestine includes the colon and the part of the colon just before the anus (rectum).
Signs of colon cancer may include:
- Abdominal cramping
- Bleeding from the rectum or blood in the stool
- Bowel changes
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
- Weakness
Regular screening for colorectal cancer helps ensure that doctors find cancer when it is most treatable. We offer prevention and screening services at several convenient locations.
Our cancer experts use several different tests to diagnose colorectal cancer. We start by talking with you about any family members who've had colon cancer to understand your risk factors.
- For individuals at an average risk of colon cancer, screening starts at age 45.
- Screening may begin earlier based on personal or familial risk factors.
- For those with an increased risk for colon cancer, screening will usually begin at age 40, or 10 years before the age of when a family member was diagnosed.
- For those age 75-85, screening should be based on personal risk factors and overall health.
- Not recommended for screening over the age of 85.
We consider your age, cancer stage and your overall health when developing your personalized colorectal cancer treatment plan. Cancer treatments may include:
- Ablation
- Chemotherapy.
- Immunotherapy
- Surgery
- Partial colectomy
- Total colectomy
- Radiation therapy
- Targeted therapy
Our experts and partners also research new ways to treat cancer. Please read about our work at Sentara Health Research Center.