Colorectal cancer develops in the colon or rectum and is the third most common cancer in the United States. Risk factors include family history, age over 50, African American ethnicity, and lifestyle factors like lack of exercise, poor diet, smoking, and excess alcohol. Symptoms can include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss. Screening is recommended starting at age 50 to find and remove precancerous polyps. Treatment options depend on the stage of cancer, ranging from removal of early stage polyps to chemotherapy and radiation for late stage or metastatic cancer. Community resources provide support for patients and their families.