Colorectal Cancer: An overview

An overview of the epidemiology, pathology, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of colorectal cancers. Colorectal cancers are more common in older people and those with a family history. Red meat, obesity, cigarette smoking and alcohol are known to be risk factors. The vast majority of colorectal cancers are adenocarcinomas, and over 60% of cancers are found in the rectum or sigmoid colon. Diagnosis is by means of colonoscopy and biopsy, CT and MRI. Treatment options include surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy and targeted therapies.