What is colorectal cancer?

Colorectal cancer includes cancers of the colon, rectum, appendix and some anal cancers. 
Cells become abnormal and grow into an uncontrolled mass.  Growths, called polyps can start
out as benign (non-cancerous) and over time, may become cancerous. 

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer related deaths in the United States;
only lung cancer claims more lives. Approximately 145,000 Americans are diagnosed with colorectal cancer annually and 56,000 cases result in death.

Eradication of colorectal cancer begins with early detection and treatment. Colorectal cancer is curable in approximately 90% of diagnosed cases, if detected early. As a result of advanced research, the colorectal cancer rate has decreased by 75 to 90%.  This can be translated to 30,000 lives saved each year. 

*For research information please click on "Research"page .