Colon and Rectal Cancer

Colorectal (colon or rectal) cancer is the second leading type of cancer affecting Americans today. The National Cancer Institute reported over 40,000 cases of rectal cancer and more than 112,000 cases of colon cancer in 2007.

Risk Factors

Colon or rectal cancer is not limited to any age group and can develop at any time throughout an individual’s life. While this is true, there are certain factors that increase an individual’s risk factor for colorectal cancer development:

• Age – The risk of developing colon or rectal cancer or polyps rises considerably after an individual reaches 50 years of age. It is highly recommended to have regular colon and rectal cancer screening once you pass this landmark.

• Hereditary – Those with a family history of colorectal polyps or cancer are at an increased risk of developing cancer themselves.

Symptoms

Colorectal cancer symptoms may include:

• Rectal bleeding
• Weight loss
• Abdominal pain
• Changes in bowel movement, including constipation or diarrhea

Since these symptoms are also signs of less serious problems, colon and rectal cancers are often not detected until the disease has reached its later stages. If you are experiencing one or more of these symptoms, prompt evaluation by the caring staff at Minimally Invasive Colon and Rectal Surgery of South Florida is a critical key to early detection.

Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS)

Colon and rectal cancer treatment typically involves surgery. Minimally invasive laparoscopic colon surgery has been proven through studies conducted by the American College of Colon and Rectal Surgeons to be the best option for colon cancer treatment.

Treatment through minimally invasive colon rectal surgery involves a dime sized incision along with the use of a digital camera and specialized instruments. This is the least invasive form of surgery available and has proven benefits when compared to chemotherapy, radiation and traditional surgery.

The average hospital stay for minimally invasive colon surgery is four days, compared to a nine day hospital stay for traditional surgery. This method has also proven the ability to exceed the traditional standards of lymph node removal, leaving patients with virtually no trace of cancer or room for recurrence.

Another notable benefit is the quality of life the patient will experience after this method is completed. Minimally invasive surgery avoids the need for a permanent colostomy, leaving the patient with a healthier and happier post-surgery life.

If you have been diagnosed with colorectal cancer and are in need of a surgical procedure, educate yourself about the advantages of MIS, available at Minimally Invasive Colon and Rectal Surgery of South Florida. Dr. Belizon, an award winning physician certified by the American Board of Surgery is a leader among his peers. Dr. Belizon will ensure that you’ve been properly diagnosed, and he and his competent staff will help you through this difficult time. There is hope for a promising tomorrow with South Florida’s leading colorectal surgical center. To Contact Dr. Belizon, click the following link, www.floridacolonandrectaldoctors.com/contact.asp