However, adenomatous polyps when enlarged to one centimeter in diameter carry a 1 percent chance of turning cancerous. As adenomatous polyps grow to two centimeters in diameter, the risk factor increases to 5 to 10 percent. If not treated, cells from the tumor may break away and spread through the bloodstream or lymph system to other parts of the body. But catching the disease early is difficult. Cheung said 90 percent of those afflicted with colorectal cancer have no early symptoms.
Prevention is key.
Cheung advises eating grains, vegetables, low fat, high fiber diet coupled with regular exercise. Since there is a genetic link to colorectal cancer, if a family member has been diagnosed, it is important to get screened. The Cancer Society also advises against smoking. Studies show that dietary changes have increased the chances of developing colorectal cancer among the Chinese American community. Women are twice as susceptible.