Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the colon or rectum, which are the last parts of the digestive system that helps remove waste from the body. It usually begins as a small growth or polyp in the colon or rectum that slowly changes into cancer over many years if it is not removed.  

While screening rates are up and mortality is down for older Americans (65+), colorectal cancer is rising in people under 50 years of age. The American Cancer Society (ACS) reports that in people younger than 50, rates increased by 2.9% per year from 2013-2022, compared to an increase of 0.4% per year for adults aged 50-64 years during the same period.  
 
In the early stages, colorectal cancer often causes no symptoms. When found early, treatment for colorectal cancer is often less invasive, and has better outcomes. When still localized at diagnosis, the five-year survival rate for colorectal cancer is 90%. For cancer that has spread to other parts of the body, the five-year survival rate is less than 20%.  

Screening — and early detection — saves lives  

“Screening for an average risk adult — individuals without a personal/family history of colorectal cancer or an inherited condition that increases the risk of colorectal cancer — should start at age 45 and continue to age 75,” said Dr. Christopher Taylor, director of the Rectal Cancer Center of Excellence at CommonSpirit Penrose Hospital, a physician specializing in benign and malignant pathology of the colon, rectum, and anus, who is fellowship trained and board certified in colorectal surgery.  “Patients with a significant family history or significant risk factors should start screening at an early age determined by their doctor.” 

Screening options include stool tests and colonoscopy. “Colonoscopy is commonly performed every 10 years, but screening frequency depends on the test used and any findings, said Dr. Taylor. 

Colorectal cancer does not discriminate 
According to the ACS, excluding skin cancers, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States. It is also the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men, the 4^th leading cause in women, but second most common cause of cancer deaths for men and women combined.  

In 2025, there were 154,720 new cases and 52,900 deaths from colorectal cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute. This year, 55,230 deaths from the disease are anticipated. 

The disease develops slowly, taking around 10 years for a precancerous polyp to turn into a cancerous polyp that may cause symptoms, which can include: 

• Changes in appetite or bowel habits.  

• Ongoing cramps, gas, or pain in the belly area. 

• Persistent bloating. 

• Rectal bleeding, blood in stool or on toilet paper. 

• Tiredness/Weakness. 

• Unexplained anemia or weight loss. 

 
Do not be embarrassed. See a medical professional if you are experiencing any worrisome symptoms! 

Risk factors for colorectal cancer — and reducing them 

“Risk factors that a patient cannot control include age, history of colon polyps, a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, and inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative colitis),” said Dr. Taylor. “Risk factors that a patient can control include a diet high in red meat or processed foods and low in fiber, obesity, smoking, heavy alcohol use, and low physical activity.” 

Treating colorectal cancer in Colorado Springs  

The main treatment for colon cancer is surgery to remove part of the colon. Some patients may benefit from chemotherapy after surgery. 

Rectal cancer often requires a combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. Typically, several specialists work together for rectal cancer treatment.  

Colorectal cancer that has metastasized or spread elsewhere in the body is typically treated with chemotherapy. 

“Treatment for rectal cancer can vary widely across the United States, and differences in care can affect outcomes. A Rectal Cancer Center of Excellence provides team-based, research-driven care, where specialists such as surgeons, oncologists, radiation oncologists, and radiologists work together to develop the best treatment plan for each patient,” said Dr. Taylor. “Studies have shown that patients treated at these specialized centers may have better outcomes, including lower mortality (death) rates, compared with treatment at non-specialized facilities.” 

The multidisciplinary team at Penrose Hospital — the only Rectal Cancer Center of Excellence in Colorado — offers the highest quality care for patients, bringing the best, fastest, and most reliable cancer care in the state. The team, led by Dr. Taylor, provides patients with a clear understanding of their disease process and establishes a patient- and family-centered treatment plan. 

“We have compassionate physicians and caregivers who walk with patients through every step of the process,” said Dr. Taylor. 

Penrose Hospital earned re-accreditation from the National Accreditation Program for Rectal Cancer (NAPRC), a quality program of the American College of Surgeons. Rectal cancer programs accredited by the NAPRC undergo a site visit every three years and are also accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer.  

“This accreditation improves patients’ outcomes and experiences,” Dr. Taylor concluded. 

Care at CommonSpirit is inspired by faith, driven by innovation, and powered by humanity. Learn more at CommonSpirit Health | Health Care in Colorado, Kansas & Utah.