Understanding cancer of the colon and rectum - The colon and rectum (large bowel)

What are the symptoms?

How it is diagnosed

Further tests

Types of treatment used

Surgery

After your operation

If you need a colostomy

Will your diet need to change

Chemotherapy

Radiotherapy

Follow up

Research - clinical trials

Your feelings

If you are a friend or relative

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Understanding cancer of the colon and rectum

From the CancerBACUP booklet series

The colon and rectum (large bowel)

The bowel is divided into two parts, the small and large bowel. Most cancers develop in the large bowel, which is also known as the colon and rectum.

Colon and Rectum

Once food has been swallowed it passes down the gullet (oesophagus) to the stomach and into the small bowel. As food passes through the small bowel it is digested and essential nutrients are taken into the body. The digested food then enters the large bowel and water is absorbed. The remaining waste matter, known as stools or faeces, is held in the rectum (back passage) until it is ready to be passed from the body as a bowel motion.

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