Overview | Phoenix CyberKnife Radiation & Oncology Center

An Overview of Colorectal Cancer

Cancer is type of disease characterized by the prolific, uncontrolled growth of cells (a tumor) in a certain part of the body; the part of the body where the excessive cellular growth takes place is part of what identifies the type of cancer. Colorectal cancer, therefore, is a cancerous growth that begins in colon or rectum; patients may be diagnosed with rectal cancer or colon cancer depending on the tumor’s location. Following a diagnosis, patients in Phoenix seeking colorectal cancer treatment may visit us

What Are the First Signs of Colorectal Cancer?

Cancer may develop in virtually any part of the body as cells begin to multiply without dying according to their natural growth cycle. In the case of colorectal cancer, this abnormal growth can cause patients to experience many different symptoms, such as:

  • Blood in the stool
  • Rectal bleeding
  • Chronic anemia
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Unexplained fatigue
  • Bloating

These and other symptoms are not in themselves definitive evidence of either rectal or colon cancer. Patients experiencing symptoms should speak with their doctor. Doctors will conduct tests and screenings to gather more information about the patient’s health before a diagnosis is made. In most cases, doctors will discuss a patient’s family health history, including any known cases of colorectal cancers.

The Role of Family Health in Cancer Diagnosis

You might wonder why your doctors discuss the health of your parents and grandparents with you during appointments. This is because many types of cancer have a genetic element that may affect your risk of developing those cancers. However, cancer is a complex category of diseases and there are many different risk factors affecting different people. This is one reason why knowing patient education is so important. Some risk factors are controllable, so learning more about cancer, its prevention, and its diagnosis can be very helpful.

We are a Phoenix cancer center dedicated to helping patients take control of their health by providing surgical treatment solutions and much more. Please contact the Phoenix Cyberknife and Radiation Oncology Center today.

COVID-19 UPDATE

Our top priority is the health and safety of our patients. Treatments will continue as our staff is taking extra precautionary measures to ensure the safety of all patients. We are working closely with local and national health authorities to stay informed on all important developments.

Contact our office prior to your appointment.

Phoenix Cyberknife Radiation Oncology is dedicated to the health and safety of our employees, patients, and their families. With the recent spread of COVID-19 and the height of cold and flu season, it is important to be mindful of not only yourself but others around you as well. These viruses are spread from person to person through coughing, sneezing, contact with contaminated surfaces and close personal contact. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms: runny nose, dry cough, low-grade fevers or shortness of breath; please contact our office prior to your appointment for further instruction

Click here for more information for the Arizona Department of Health Services.