Colorectal cancer is a disease in which cells in the colon or rectum become abnormal and divide without control, forming a mass called a tumor. (The colon and rectum are parts of the body’s digestive system, which takes up nutrients from food and water, and stores solid waste until it passes out of the body.)

Though the exact causes of colorectal cancer are not known, studies have shown that certain factors are linked to an increased chance of developing this disease.

Screening is very important as it checks for health problems before they cause symptoms. If colorectal cancer screening reveals a problem, diagnosis and treatment can occur promptly. The cancer is generally more treatable when it is found early, before it has had a chance to spread.

Contact Dr Cates for more information on colon cancer and screening

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Read also: Colonoscopy May Reduce Late-Stage Colon Cancer Risk by 70%