M.D. Questions and answers about prevention and treatment The colon, or the large intestine, is at the end of the digestive system. The colon very efficiently absorbs water and reduces the volume of waste that needs to be eliminated in the stool in a convenient form at a convenient time. However, if detected early, colorectal cancer can be cured. With simple preventive steps, you can greatly reduce your risk of developing the disease. It is important for you to understand your risks for colorectal cancer, the symptoms, and screening tests that can detect cancerous growths.
Colorectal cancer develops from non-cancer polyps called adenomatous polyps.
A polyp is a grape-like growth on the inside wall of the colon or rectum. Polyps grow slowly over three to ten years. Most people do not develop polyps until after the age of 50. Some polyps become cancerous, others do not. In order to prevent colorectal cancer, it is important to get screened to find out if you have polyps, and to have them removed if you do.