Colon and Rectal Cancer

Cancers that start in the large intestine (colon) or the rectum (the end of the colon) are referred to as colon or colorectal cancers.

Colon and Rectal Cancer

Cancers that start in the large intestine (colon) or the rectum (the end of the colon) are referred to as colon or colorectal cancers.

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Colorectal cancers are one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the U.S., being the third most prevalent cause in women and the second most prevalent in men.

Colorectal cancer nearly always begins as noncancerous, or benign polyps that develop slowly into cancer over time. These cancers typically start in glands that line the colon and rectum. Getting screened with a colonoscopy means you can catch polyps before they become cancer, or find cancer early when it’s most treatable. The more advanced colorectal cancers are allowed to progress, the more difficult treatment can become.

Get Screened

Regular screenings are important to detect colon cancer early, when it’s most treatable. A colonoscopy is often used to detect cancerous growths at the earliest stages. If you’re unsure of your risks, talk to your doctor. Learn more about colonoscopy services.

Treatment Options

When colorectal cancer is detected, the cancer experts at CommonSpirit Health develop an effective, individualized treatment plan based on the specifics of your condition. Factors such as the exact type and location of the tumor, the stage of the cancer and your age and general health will help to guide treatment decisions. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy or a combination of these treatments.

The skilled surgeons at CommonSpirit offer a full array of minimally invasive surgery techniques. These less-invasive procedures are designed to offer the potential for better outcomes and shorter hospital stays following surgery.

Penrose Hospital: Colorado’s First and ONLY Nationally Accredited Rectal Cancer Center of Excellence

It’s personal, scary, and can happen to anyone. At CommonSpirit, our rectal cancer specialists have set the standards and earned deserved accreditation. Penrose Hospital, part of CommonSpirit, is the first and only hospital in Colorado belonging to the National Accreditation Program for Rectal Cancer (NAPRC), a quality program of the American College of Surgeons. Learn more