http://www.antonbilchikmd.com/ | Colorectal cancer is a top killer -- one of the most commonly diagnosed forms of cancer. Early detection and treatment are essential to halting this disease.

1. Understanding Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer kills more than 50,000 people each year. Understanding the warning signs,
symptoms and progression of these diseases will better help the public identify and seek
treatment. Colon and rectum cancer is the third leading cause of cancer deaths and is also the
third most commonly diagnosed form of cancer. About 136,830 people will be diagnosed with
the illness this year, according to the American Cancer Society.
What Is Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer is a form of cancer that affects the cells in either the colon or rectum. These
cancers may be referred to as colon or rectal cancer, depending on where they occur. The colon
and rectum are both parts of the digestive system, with the rectum resting at the bottom of the
system, and the colon residing higher up.
Colorectal cancers typically develop slowly over several years, beginning as non-cancerous
polyps in the lining of colons or rectums. Not all polyps become cancer, but some do.
Adenomatous polyps are more likely to turn into cancer than hyperplastic polyps or
inflammatory polyps.
Cancerous polyps can grow into the walls of the colon or rectum, and they eventually grow into
blood vessels or lymph nodes. When they grow into blood vessels or lymph nodes, the disease
can then quickly spread to other parts of the body. At this point, the disease can become very
difficult to treat.
Some Common Symptoms of Colon or Rectal Cancer Include:
Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation. Changes in the consistency of
stool can also be an indicator.
Blood in the stool.
Constant cramps, gas or pain.
Weakness or fatigue.
Unexplained weight loss.
A feeling of incomplete emptying of the bowels.
Men and women experiencing these symptoms should see a doctor for a colorectal screening that
can help determine if there is cause for concern.
Detection & Treatment
Early detection is vital to the successful prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer. Increasing
access to and use of colorectal cancer screening can greatly help to reduce the mortality rate from
this insidious form of cancer. Only about 59 percent of people aged 50 or older – the age group
that can benefit most from screening – get the proper screening.

2. There are a variety of treatment options for colon and rectum cancer, and the treatment chosen
often depends on the severity of the problem. Small cancerous polyps can be removed during a
colonoscopy, and laparoscopic surgery can also often be used to remove cancerous growths. For
more advanced stages of colorectal cancer, partial removal of the colon may be needed, along
with chemical or radiation therapy to shrink tumors or kill cancer cells that have spread to other
parts of the body. Targeted drug therapy is also used in advanced stages of colon and rectum
cancer.
Dr. Anton Bilchik
Dr. Anton Bilchik, MD (www.antonbilchikmd.com) is ranked among the top doctors for
colorectal cancer in the nation. Based at Saint John’s Medical Center-Santa Monica, Bilchik has
an exceptional track record of helping victims of colorectal cancer treat and beat their illness.
Bilchik has the knowledge of the disease and the access to state-of-the-art facilities to greatly
improve patients’ odds when battling this illness.