Colorectal Cancer Care
One in 23 men and 1 in 25 women will develop colorectal cancer during their lifetimes. Fortunately, the disease is highly preventable when you stay on top of your health. In most cases, an early diagnosis can lead to a complete cure.
At Beaufort Memorial, we’re proud to help lead the fight against colorectal cancer in the Lowcountry. From the latest screening options to a full range of treatments, clinical trials and support services, you’ll find everything you need, right here at home.
Speak with your primary care provider (PCP) about when to begin colorectal cancer screenings. Need a PCP? See a list of PCPs accepting new patients.
Colorectal Cancer Symptoms
Colorectal cancer refers to two different types of gastrointestinal cancer: colon cancer, which affects the first five feet of the large intestine (colon), and rectal cancer, which affects the final six inches of the large intestine (rectum). Both cancers usually begin as a growth, called a polyp, on the lining of the colon or rectum. Some types of polyps can change into cancer, but not all polyps become cancer.
Colorectal cancer symptoms are often silent until the disease has progressed. If you do notice symptoms, they may include:
- Abdominal pain
- Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea
- Change in the size or color of stool
- Chronic fatigue
- Dark blood in the stool
- Rectal bleeding with bright blood
- Unexplained anemia
- Unintended weight loss
Colorectal Cancer: Early Detection Is Your Best Protection
Colorectal cancer is highly preventable with regular screenings, such as colonoscopies. Finding potentially cancerous polyps early helps doctors remove those polyps before cancer develops, which increases survival rates. If cancerous polyps are found early, doctors can treat colorectal cancer in its early stages when treatment options are most successful.
The American Cancer Society recommends that people at average risk of colorectal cancer start regular colonoscopy screenings at age 45. However, you might need to begin screening earlier if you have a strong family history of colorectal cancer or certain kinds of polyps, a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, an inherited colorectal cancer syndrome such as Lynch syndrome, or other risk factors, such as radiation to the abdomen or pelvic area. Based on risk factors like family history, your primary care provider may refer you to the Beaufort Memorial Cancer Genetics and High-Risk Program in Beaufort or Okatie for testing and risk management.
Speak with your primary care provider about scheduling a simple and painless screening colonoscopy.
Colorectal Cancer Treatment at Beaufort Memorial
Most polyps do not become cancer, but if you are diagnosed with cancer, rest assured you’re in skilled and caring hands. Our team of gastroenterologists, oncologists, specially trained nurses and support staff will help coordinate a personalized cancer treatment plan.
Beaufort Memorial radiation oncologists and surgeons use advanced treatments, including external-beam radiation therapy that delivers a large, precise radiation dose to a small area and minimally invasive da Vinci robotic-assisted surgery. You also have access to leading cancer clinical trials close to home.
Read more about colorectal cancer treatments at Beaufort Memorial.
Total Support for the Journey
We’re committed to caring for the whole you and providing the resources you and your loved ones need to manage a cancer diagnosis. You’ll find a full range of cancer support services, from nutritional counseling to support groups and lymphedema prevention. And you’ll have your own nurse navigator and social worker to personally guide you every step of the way.