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Colon & Rectal Cancer

Overview

Colon and rectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer diagnosed in the United States today and is the third most deadly. Many people do not realize that they might be at risk of developing this cancer - or that colon and rectal cancer can be prevented.


Colon & Rectal Cancer

Prevention

While some colon and rectal cancers are related to a family history of colon polyps or cancer, most are caused by our lifestyle choices. Research has shown that smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity (being very overweight), a lack of exercise and a diet high in fats and red meats and/or low in fruits and vegetables are risk factors for colon and rectal cancer. The good news is that you may be able to reduce your personal risk of developing this cancer by stopping smoking, consuming alcohol in moderation, exercising regularly, watching your weight and eating more healthfully.

You can also receive a FREE colon cancer screening kit. Click here to complete the online form to receive your free in-home screening kit or just download, fill out and mail in this form to our KHN Cancer Care Team. We will then send you your free in-home screening kit. It free, it's simple, it's confidential... and it could save your life.


Colon & Rectal Cancer

Diagnosis

Colon and rectal cancers that are found early are up to 90% curable. All men and women who are age 50-and- up or younger men and women who have a family history of colon polyps or cancers should talk with their physicians about screening tests that are designed to help find cancer early, when it is the most curable.

Symptoms may include:

  • Bleeding from the rectum
  • Bowel movement pattern changes that continue over time
  • General discomfort in the abdomen
  • Vomiting
  • Constant fatigue
  • Chronic constipation

If you have any of these symptoms, you may need medical care. Talk to your physician or contact Physician Referral at (937) 384-6950.


Colon & Rectal Cancer

Treatment

The National Cancer Institute offers an overview of colon and rectal cancer treatments.

For people facing a colon or rectal cancer diagnosis, KHN has the expertise you need. Our team of surgeons and surgical oncologists, medical and radiation oncologists, radiologists and imaging specialists, critical care physicians, pharmacists, dieticians and specially trained nurses will work together to ensure you receive the best treatment. Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, biotherapy and targeted therapy and chemotherapy.


Colon & Rectal Cancer

Support Groups/Education


Looking Ahead Support Group

This group helps individuals living with cancer, their families and friends. For those newly diagnosed with cancer as well as long-term survivors. Meets at Kettering Medical Center on the first Tuesday of each month except June and December. Check the Looking Ahead newsletter or call Cancer Services at (937) 395-8115 for more information.

I Can Cope

This is a series of educational classes for people with cancer, their families and friends. The program helps people meet the challenge of coping with cancer by distinguishing cancer myths from facts. This FREE program provides practical information about cancer, cancer treatments and offers self-care strategies and resources for those facing cancer. This American Cancer Society Program is co-sponsored by Kettering Health Network.

Call the American Cancer Society at 1-888-ACS-OHIO (227-6446) for current dates, location and to register.

Cancer Resource Center

The Cancer Resource Center (CRC) is a collaborative effort between your American Cancer Society and Kettering Medical Center. The CRC is located at Kettering Memorial Hospital, ground floor, adjacent to the Radiation Therapy waiting area, and is open to the public from 9am to 4pm, Monday through Friday, except holidays and during special events. Trained volunteers are available to assist you with information about cancer, cancer prevention and early detection, cancer treatments, coping and support groups and other resources. Information called also be mailed upon request. Call (937) 395-8081.

Makarius Library

The Makarius Library is located at Kettering Memorial Hospital, 3 South. This is a free lending library with materials on cancer, treatment, coping, and inspiration. Items may be signed out for up to four weeks. The library is open daily, except during patient care meetings.