About Colon Cancer

About Colon Cancer
Early Detection

Colorectal Cancer
by the Numbers

(All data based on U.S. analysis)

• 153,760 = The estimated number of new cases diagnosed in 2007
• 52,180 = The number of deaths attributed to colorectal cancer in 2007
• 6% = Lifetime risk for developing colorectal cancer in the U.S.
• 75% = people with no known risk factors who develop colorectal cancer.
• 62% = average survival rate for people five years after initial diagnosis
• 10% = percentage of the population by age 50 that has polyps.
• 30% = percentage of the population by age 65 that has polyps.
• 8-12% = percentage of polyps that will become cancerous if left untreated.
• 90% = percentage reduction of an individual's risk of dying from colorectal cancer by getting a colonoscopy
• 70% = percentage reduction of an individual's risk of dying from colorectal cancer by getting a colonoscopy
• 2% = decline in overall mortality from 1992-2004. Attributed to increased utilization of screening tools (colonoscopy, fecal occult blood test, barium enema, sigmoidoscopy)

About Colon Cancer

Colorectal Cancer is the third most common cancer in both men and women. It is the 2nd leading cause of death among cancers in the United States. Though it is unclear exactly what causes colorectal cancer, scientists have identified a number of factors that may contribute to polyp formation and colorectal development. These factors include, diet, genetics, environment, activity levels, and chronic inflammation of colon tissue. Nearly all cancers begin as benign polyps, which can slowly develop into cancer if they are not removed. Therefore it is vitally important to follow the screening guidelines to stop colorectal cancer before it even starts.

The Good News and Bad News of Colorectal Cancer

The Good News: 60% of deaths from colorectal cancer could be prevented if everyone age 50 and older were screened regularly.

The Bad News: Only about 40% of people older than 50 have undergone a colonoscopy. 93% of cases are diagnosed in individuals 50 years and older.

The Good News: When Colorectal cancer is detected at an early stage, the five year survival is often greater than 97%.

The Bad News: Because screening rates are so low, less than 40 percent of colorectal cancers are found early.

The Good News: Colorectal Cancer can be prevented if detected early through regular screening.

The Bad News: Screening for colorectal cancer lags far behind screening for breast and cervical cancer. Widespread use of colonoscopy is 10-15 years behind mammaography.