Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer starts in the colon or the rectum. These cancers can also be called colon cancer or rectal cancer, depending on where they start. Colon cancer and rectal cancer are often grouped together because they have many features in common. Most colorectal cancers start as a growth on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. These growths are called polyps. If cancer forms in a polyp, it can grow into the wall of the colon or rectum over time. In the US during 2023, there are predicted 152,840 new cases of colorectal cancer and 52,550 deaths from colorectal cancer. The lifetime risk for developing colorectal cancer for men is 1 in 23. The lifetime risk for developing colorectal cancer for women is 1 in 26. If diagnosed early when it is localized, the survival rate for 5 years is 91%