Mayo Clinic Care Network Content
Definitions

Colorectal cancer


Overview

Colorectal cancer affects the colon or rectum, located at the lower end of the digestive tract.

Symptoms

Symptoms may vary depending on the cancer's size and location.

Treatments

Most cases begin as noncancerous polyps. Removing polyps can prevent cancer, so doctors recommend screenings for those at high risk or over the age of 50.