He warns, however, that early signs of colon cancer are vague or even nonexistent. Dr. Benson s comments address the pressing need for the first-ever National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in March 2000. Cancer of the colon and rectum is the second-leading cause of death from cancer. However, if the cancer is detected early, more than 90 percent of patients will live five years or longer, according to statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Most colorectal cancers develop from polyps.
Polyps are abnormal growths that develop within the colon and rectum.
Certain types of polyps can develop into cancer if not removed. If a screening isn t suggested to an individual, Dr. van Stolk says patients should request it from their physicians. Removal of polyps at an early stage has been proven to prevent cancer. The removal of polyps is absolutely painless, assures Dr. van Stolk. Family history is a critical factor in whether one is likely to develop colorectal cancer.