Screening refers to a number of tests that can be used to find polyps and remove them before they become cancers or to find cancers while they are very early and treatable for cure. For more details regarding recommended screening tests, please go to The American Cancer Society . Not all colorectal cancers will cause symptoms. In fact many cancers will not cause symptoms until they are far advanced. That is why it is so important to undergo screening examinations to find cancers that are early and curable and to remove polyps before a cancer develops.
Most polyps have no symptoms at all.
Blood in the stool, anemia and abdominal cramping or bloating may also signal a colorectal cancer. However none of these symptoms are unique to colorectal cancer. Colitis, hemorrhoids and irritable bowel syndrome are just a few things that can also cause some of these symptoms. Anyone who experiences such symptoms should see their physician to find out what the cause is and rule out the possibility of colorectal cancer. Further information regarding intestinal symptoms can be found at The American Gastroenterological Association .