Ask The Expert/FAQs

Other Frequently Asked Questions:

	Q.	What causes colon or rectal cancer?
	Q.	Which cancer is more difficult to cure, colon or rectal cancer?
	Q.	What is a colostomy or ileostomy, and will either one be necessary?
	Q.	Does diet play a role in colorectal cancer?
	Q.	If I have a polyp, does that mean I'm going to get colorectal cancer?

Q. What causes colon or rectal cancer?

A. When genetic changes occur in the cells lining the large intestine, colorectal cancer is the result. These changes occur slowly over time when a polyp develops into cancer. Scientists haven’t yet discovered a way to prevent colon polyps but advanced screening techniques allow our doctors to detect these cell changes and remove polyps before they develop into cancer.

Q. Which cancer is more difficult to cure, colon or rectal cancer?

A. It depends on the stage of cancer and how a person’s body responds to chemotherapy and/or radiation. UC Irvine Healthcare surgeons are skilled in highly specialized techniques to provide the best chance for a cure.

Q. What is a colostomy or ileostomy, and will either one be necessary?

A. During colon and rectal surgery, sometimes the intestines need to be brought out to the abdominal wall and an appliance, or “bag,” is placed to catch the body’s stool. Patients who have rectal cancer, advanced anal cancer or certain forms of diverticulitis may need a colostomy. Patients who have a severe form of Crohn’s disease that isn’t responding to treatment may also require a colostomy.

An ileostomy is more common than a colostomy. It diverts the body’s stool from the reconstructed area so that it can heal properly. Temporary ileostomies are reversible, usually through a small incision around the ileostomy.

Q. Does diet play a role in colorectal cancer?

A. Colorectal cancer occurs more frequently among people who eat a high-calorie, high-fat diet that is low in important nutrients like calcium, folate and fiber. It develops less often in people who eat a low-fat diet, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains and unprocessed foods.

Q. If I have a polyp, does that mean I'm going to get colorectal cancer?

A. Polyps are growths on the inner wall of the colon and rectum. Some types of polyps may increase a person’s risk of developing colorectal cancer, but not all polyps become cancerous.

Questions? Contact the Colorectal Surgery Services at 888.717.GIMD (888.717.4463).

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