You may have heard the terms colorectal, colon, and rectal cancer before. While the terms are often used interchangeably, there are some key differences between these cancers. In this article, we will examine colorectal cancer, colon cancer, and rectal cancer, and describe the key similarities and differences of each.
What is colorectal cancer?
Colorectal cancer is the all-encompassing term for both colon and rectal cancers.
Colon Cancer vs Rectal Cancer
Both colon and rectal cancer affect the large intestine, which is the lowest part of the digestive system. The main difference between the two types of cancer is where they start in the large intestine. Colon cancer and rectal cancer are often grouped together because they have many features in common. If cancer is found in the rectum versus the colon, a difference will be seen in the risks and how it’s treated.
Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer
Both colon and rectal cancer are likely to cause many of the same symptoms, including:
Stomach or gas pains
Constipation or diarrhea
Black, dark, or red-colored stools, which can all indicate blood
Feeling weak or tired
What is colon cancer?
Colon cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the large intestine also called the colon. The colon is the last segment (about 5 feet long) of the digestive tract and absorbs water from the stool.
How is colon cancer treated?
Most people with colon cancer have some type of surgery. The cancer, a small part of normal colon on either side of the cancer, and nearby lymph nodes are often removed. The two ends of the colon are then put back together.
What is rectal cancer?
Rectal cancer refers to a type of cancer that starts in the rectum, which refers to the last portion of the colon. Rectal cancer can often spread faster than colon cancer because it does not have the protective layer that the colon has and it is shorter than the colon. The primary goal in treating rectal cancer is keeping it from spreading.
How is rectal cancer treated?
Most people with rectal cancer need surgery. Radiation and chemo might be given before surgery. Sometimes the cancer can be removed through the anus, without the need for an incision., which can be used to remove some early-stage cancers. If the rectal cancer is more advanced and close to the anus, surgery will be done to take out the cancer and make an opening on your belly to get rid of body waste called a colostomy, which you will need indefinitely.
Whether you have been diagnosed with colon or rectal cancer, it’s important to put your treatment in the care of a trusted colorectal specialist who has experience in treating both types of colorectal cancer. Call the colorectal specialists at Colorectal Clinic of Tampa Bay today and rest assured you are in good hands.