Download COLORECTAL CANCER

COLORECTAL CANCER
Two Types
• Colon cancer – Starts in the Colon (Large
Intestine)
• Rectum Cancer – Starts in the rectum
• Also known as bowel cancer.
What is cancer?
• Our bodies grow through cell division (mitosis)
• Once we don’t need them to divide and grow
any more, they stop.
• Cancer is when our cells keep reproducing
when we don’t need them to, forming a
tumour.
• Benign tumours stay in one part of the body
and can be removed.
• Malignant tumours spread uncontrollably.
Polyps
• Tiny growths that form on the inside lining of
the colon.
• Can grow into cancers.
• Can sometimes be noticed or felt as grape like
growths.
What should you do if you notice such
a growth? (Or any growth that is
abnormal?)
• GO TO THE DOCTOR!
• 75% of colorectal cancer cases are preventable
through diet, exercise and early screening.
Causes/Risk Factors
• High fat intake (familiar?)
• Excess red meat (90g+ per day)
• Excess overcooked meat.
Preventative Measures
• Antioxidants – found in vegetables and
legumes.
• Carotene-rich (yellow, orange, red vegies)
• 5 serves a day.
• Fibre – Allows food matter and waste to pass
through colon quicker. Matter that stays in the
bowels can become a polyp.