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Colorectal Cancer -- Questions & Answers
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Q: What is colorectal cancer?
A: "Colorectal" refers to the colon and rectum, which comprise the large intestines. Colorectal cancer can originate anywhere in the large intestines. The majority of colorectal cancers develop first as polyps. Colorectal polyps are tiny growths inside the colon or rectum that may become cancerous.
Q: How does colorectal cancer affect the U.S. population?
A: In 1999, the American Cancer Society estimates that 129,400 people will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer and 56,600 people will die of this cancer in the United States.
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Q: Who is at risk for colorectal cancer?
A: Here are some facts about colorectal cancer risk:
Colorectal cancer is most common in people aged 50 years and older and the risk increases
with age. Both men and women are at risk for colorectal cancer.
A family history of colorectal cancer or colorectal polyps increases the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Certain diseases of the bowels can increase the risk for colorectal cancer.
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Q: What are the signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer?
A: Colorectal cancer can develop with few, if any, symptoms at first. Nevertheless, some signs of the disease can include:
blood in or on the stool
a change in bowel habits
stools that are narrower than usual
general stomach discomfort
frequent gas or pains
weight loss
If you have any of these symptoms, discuss them with your doctor. Only he or she can determine if they are caused by cancer.
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Q: What are the screening tests for colorectal
cancer?
A: The tests that are currently available include:
Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) --- a test that checks for blood in the stool. Sigmoidoscopy --- an examination during which
a trained doctor looks at the inside of the rectum and lower portion of the colon through a lighted tube. The doctor may collect samples of tissue or cells for closer examination. Colonoscopy --- an examination during which a trained doctor looks at the inside of the entire colon through a flexible, lighted instrument called a colonoscope. The doctor may collect samples of tissue or cells for closer examination.
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Double Contrast Barium Enema --- a procedure
that involves X-rays of the lower intestines taken after a patient is given an enema containing a white dye, or barium, followed by an injection of air. The barium outlines the intestine on the x-ray film.
Q: What is the insurance coverage for colorectal
cancer screening?
A: Check with your health insurance provider to
determine your colorectal cancer screening benefits.
Q: What are the Medicare Preventive Service Benefits for colorectal cancer screening?
A: If you are covered by Medicare, you now may be eligible to receive colorectal cancer screening benefits. For more information about Medicare, call the Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA) at 1-800-638-6833 or visit http://www.medicare.gov/.
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