

What Is Colorectal Cancer?

Diagram of the Colon and Rectum

Click to see a larger diagram of the colon and rectum.


Sometimes abnormal growths, called polyps, form in the colon or rectum. Over time, some polyps may turn into cancer. Screening tests can find polyps so they can be removed before turning into cancer. Screening also helps find colorectal cancer at an early stage, when treatment often leads to a cure.