Colorectal Cancer

Prevention

About 5 to 10 percent of colorectal cancers are caused by a gene mutation that can be passed on from parent to child. If you have a strong family history of colorectal cancer or other factors that may increase your risk, our Cancer Screening and Risk Assessment program can help address any concerns. The program includes genetic counseling and testing (if needed), with personalized guidance to empower you in your health.

Detection & Diagnosis

Colon and rectal cancer screening is a way that doctors check the colon and rectum for signs of cancer or growths (called polyps) that might become cancer. It is done in people who have no symptoms and no reason to think that they have cancer. The goal is to find and remove polyps before they become cancer or to find cancer early before it grows, spreads, or causes problems.

Doctors recommend that most people begin having colon cancer screening at age 45. People who have an increased risk of getting colon cancer sometimes begin screening at a younger age. That might include people with a strong family history of colon cancer and people with diseases of the colon called "Crohn’s disease" and "ulcerative colitis."

There are several different types of screening tests for colon cancer.

• A colonoscopy allows the doctor to see directly inside the entire colon. This is the ideal test because a colonoscopy finds most small polyps and almost all large polyps and cancers. If found, polyps can be removed right away.
• Cologuard Stool DNA test – The stool DNA test checks for genetic markers of cancer and signs of blood. You get a special kit for this test to collect a whole bowel movement and send it back to Cologuard.
• Stool test for blood – Stool tests most commonly check for blood in stool samples. You collect small samples from your bowel movements and put them in a special container that you get from your doctor or nurse. The stool sample will be returned to your doctor’s office.

Schedule an appointment with your primary care provider to discuss which screening tool is best for you.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Most polyps do not become cancer, but if you’re diagnosed, rest assured you’re in skilled and caring hands. Our multi-skilled team of gastroenterologists, oncologists, specially trained nurses and support staff work together and with you to create a personalized cancer treatment plan. We offer the most advanced technology, including da Vinci® robotic colectomy, for less pain and faster recovery. And you have access to cutting-edge cancer clinical trials close to home.

Support for Every Step

We’re committed to providing all the education, tools, and resources you and your loved ones need to manage a colorectal cancer diagnosis. You’ll find a full range of free or low-cost cancer support services to meet your needs, including nutritional, spiritual, and financial counseling, rehabilitation, survivorship programs, and more.