Colon Cancer

(Colorectal Cancer)

Colorectal cancer is cancer of the large bowel. 

The large bowel consists of the colon and the rectum. 

Colorectal cancer is also known as bowel cancer, colon cancer or rectal cancer (depending on where is has started). 

It is the third most common cancer in Australia.

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What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer?

Symptoms that can occur with colorectal cancer include blood in the stools, a change in bowel habit, abdominal discomfort, anal or rectal discomfort, a lump in the anus, weakness, fatigue or unintended weight loss. 

Sometimes colon cancer does not produce any symptoms.  A positive stool test (such as the National Bowel Cancer Screening test) or anaemia (low red blood cell count) should be looked into, as they are sometimes associated with colorectal cancer.

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How is colorectal cancer diagnosed?

If you have symptoms or other findings that may be associated with colorectal cancer, further medical attention should be sought. 

Your doctor will ask about your medical history, family history and perform a physical examination.  They may also perform some blood tests.

A colonoscopy is the best test to detect bowel cancer.  Dr Zhu performs colonoscopy.

Learn about Colonoscopy
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What is the stage of a cancer?

The stage of any cancer means the extent of spread of the cancer.  For colorectal cancer, it relates to how deeply it grows into the bowel wall and/or if it has spread outside of the bowel.

If you are diagnosed with colorectal cancer, additional tests may be recommended to determine its stage.  These may include blood tests and scans.

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How is colorectal cancer treated?

If you have been diagnosed with colorectal cancer, treatment options depend on a variety of factors.  These include the type of colorectal cancer, its stage, your background health and your personal wishes.  Colorectal cancer treatment is often undertaken with a team of medical professionals. 

Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, systemic therapy (such as chemotherapy) or a combination of these.  Your treatment will be personalized to your circumstances. 

Dr Zhu has extensive experience in the treatment of colorectal cancer.  Dr Zhu has advanced training in surgery for colorectal cancer.

A diagnosis of colon cancer can be stressful.  Dr Zhu is part of the multi-disciplinary colorectal cancer treatment team at South East Sydney Local Health District.  Dr Zhu can guide you through your treatment journey with care and compassion.

Learn about Colon Cancer Surgery