GENERAL INFORMATION
Colon and rectal cancer is the third most common cancer and also represents the third cause of death from cancer in the world; this makes this cancer a global health problem. The average age of presentation is 50 years old, however, like other cancers, the trend is that it is increasingly presenting in younger people.

SYMPTOM
In early stages, when the colon tumor is small, it may NOT cause discomfort to the patient. As the tumor increases in volume, it could cause bleeding (which may be imperceptible at first) and lead to an anemic syndrome (tiredness and palpitations). As it continues to grow, the tumor can also cause pain, diarrhea or constipation and even cause intestinal obstruction.

TIMELY DETECTION
In general, the global recommendation is that at the age of 45-50 years, people undergo a first colonoscopy to find out the state of their colon inside and confirm that there are no suspicious lesions. On average, a normal colonoscopy gives us a window of peace of mind of 10 years, which is the time it takes for colon cancer to develop.

DIAGNOSIS
The diagnosis of colon and rectal cancer is made through a biopsy that is taken by colonoscopy. In addition, blood studies (including a tumor marker called Embryonic Carcinogen Antigen) and tomography should be performed.

TREATMENT
As with many other types of cancer, the treatment of colon and rectal cancer requires a multidisciplinary approach by the radiologist, endoscopist, surgical oncologist, medical oncologist and radiation oncologist, each with specific contributions specific to their specialty. This helps ensure that the patient receives the optimal treatment for their particular case and that the results of the treatment are the best possible.

FORECAST
Currently, when tumors are detected in early stages, less aggressive treatments can be carried out than in the past, giving patients a good quality of life and a good oncological prognosis.

WHY CHOOSE THE ONCOLOGY CENTER FOR YOUR TREATMENT?
Because we are the only multidisciplinary center for the comprehensive oncological approach and treatment of patients with colon and rectal cancer in Quintana Roo. The team of medical specialists has national certification, experience and up-to-date medical knowledge. In turn, the Galenia Hospital has state-of-the-art equipment and infrastructure and national and international quality certifications.