What it means
Most colorectal cancers start as small growths (polyps) that can be found and removed during a colonoscopy before they turn into cancer. Risk rises with age, family history, inflammatory bowel disease, smoking, obesity and diets high in red and processed meat. Treatment includes surgery, sometimes with a colostomy, chemotherapy and radiation.
For the nurse
Teach the screening options: the USPSTF recommends screening for adults aged 45 to 75. Teach a high-fiber diet and activity.
At a glance
| Spanish | cáncer colorrectal |
|---|---|
| Also written | colorectal cancers |
Related terms
col/o
A word root that means colon, the large intestine.
rectum
The last part of the large intestine, between the colon and the anus, where stool is held until it leaves the body.
inflammatory bowel disease
A group of long-term diseases, mainly Crohn disease and ulcerative colitis, in which the lining of the digestive tract becomes inflamed.
onc/o
A word part that means tumor or mass.