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Dr. Alan J. Wieder is Board-certified in Internal Medicine, and is a Medical Director at Fidelis Care.  Here, he answers some common questions about colorectal cancer.

1) What is a colorectal polyp?

A colorectal polyp is a growth in the inner lining of the colon (large intestine) or rectum.Some may grow over time and become cancer.Early detection and removal of colorectal polyps can decrease the risk of developing cancer.

2) What are risk factors for colorectal cancer?

Risk factors include:

• Inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
• A personal or family history of colorectal cancer
• Certain genetic conditions, such as Familial Adenomatous Polyposis.
• Lifestyle factors, such as:
  • Lack of exercise
  • Diets low in fruits, vegetables and fiber
  • Diets high in fat
  • Obesity (overweight)
  • Alcohol consumption
  • Smoking

3) What are the stages for colorectal cancer?

• Stage 0:  Abnormal cells in the inner lining of the colon or rectum.  These cells may develop into cancer.
• Stage 1:  Cancer in the first inner layers of the colon or rectum.
• Stage 2:  Cancer that has spread to the outermost layer of the colon or rectum, and may have spread to nearby organs.
• Stage 3:  Cancer that has spread to nearby tissues called lymph nodes.
• Stage 4:  Cancer that has spread to organs or lymph nodes that are not next the colon or rectum, such as the liver, lungs, and brain.

4) What are the colorectal screening guidelines for 2022?

Screening should start at age 45, or earlier for those at higher risk. Available screening tests include:

• Stool tests: These are used to detect blood, and/or abnormal DNA in your stool.
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy: A special scope that is inserted through the rectum, and is used to check for polyps or cancer in the rectum and the lower third of the colon.
• Colonoscopy: Similar to flexible sigmoidoscopy, this scope is longer and can check for polyps or cancer throughout the entire colon.
• CT Colonography: Also known as virtual colonoscopy, this is a special imaging technique that takes pictures of the colon and displays them on a computer screen.

All of these tests have pros and cons. Your health care provider can help you determine which screening test is right for you.

For questions about colorectal cancer prevention and screenings, talk with your primary care physician.