Colon Cancer

Living with Colon Cancer

Most colon cancers arise from polyps. These are small growths within the colon that usually do not cause any symptoms. They appear as small bulges from the bowel wall (much like a mushroom protrudes from the ground). Over time the polyps will grow and, under appropriate conditions, turn into colon cancer. If detected early, polyps can be easily removed through colonoscopy, thereby eliminating the polyps and their risk. Since colon cancer typically arises from colonic polyps, and since polyps do not lead to symptoms, early testing may help to detect and remove polyps and prevent progressive disease. It is important for patients at risk to be checked early to prevent cancer from developing.

• Who is at risk of developing colon cancer ?
  The cause of colon cancer is unknown, however, certain risk factors have been discovered.
• Treatment Options
  Do I need to take any special medications? Will I need an operation?
• Death is not an Option - the Importance of Educating Clients about Colon Cancer Screening
  Colon Cancer is more than 95% preventable if caught early and yet almost 9,000 Canadians die from this disease every year. This session reveals the dramatic magnitude of colorectal cancer (CRC) in Canada, describes existing CRC screening programs, explores determinants and barriers to participation in CRC screening programs, and looks at how we can enhance participation in CRC screening programs to save lives.
  
  Presenter: Dr. David Morgan, Faculty Member, McMaster University, Head, Service of Gastroenterology at St. Joseph's Healthcare, Hamilton, President, Canadian Association of Gastroenterology | Watch Video