Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed each year in the United States, behind breast and lung cancer. Our team of colorectal cancer specialists provide the most advanced approaches – including robotic surgery and clinical trials of the latest treatments. Our goal is to cure your colorectal cancer and minimize side effects to help you maintain an optimal quality of life.Types of Colorectal Cancer We Treat
- Adenocarcinoma, is found in the glands that make mucus and lubricate the lining of the intestine. The most common type of colon cancer, adenocarcinoma starts as a benign polyp that, left untreated, becomes cancer.
- Gastrointestinal carcinoid tumors form in neuroendocrine cells which act as nerve cells and also regulate hormone production in the intestine.
- Gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) forms in the interstitial cells of Cajal in the wall of the gastrointestinal tract. They are rare in the colon and rectum.
- Metastatic colorectal cancer occurs when cancer cells break free from the colon or rectum and spread to other areas of the body through the circulatory or lymph system.
Colorectal Cancer Screening
The American Cancer Society recommends you begin screening for colorectal cancer at age 45, or earlier if you have symptoms, a family history or other risk factors. Your doctor may order a test to look for blood in your stool, or a colonoscopy to view the inside of the rectum and colon.
Learn more about colonoscopies at Hackensack Meridian Health.