Cancer Facts - Colon Cancer

What is cancer of the colon and rectum? The colon is the part of the digestive system where the waste material is stored. The rectum is the end of the colon adjacent to the anus. Together, they form a long, muscular tube called the large intestine (also known as the large bowel). Tumors of the colon and rectum are growths arising from the inner wall of the large intestine. Benign tumors of the large intestine are called polyps. Malignant tumors of the large intestine are called cancers. Benign polyps do not invade nearby tissue or spread to other parts of the body. Benign polyps can be easily removed during colonoscopy, and are not life threatening. If benign polyps are not removed from the large intestine, they can become malignant (cancerous) over time. Most of the cancers of the large intestine are believed to have developed from polyps. Cancer of the colon and rectum (also referred to as colorectal cancer) can invade and damage adjacent tissues and organs. Cancer cells can also break away and spread to other parts of the body (such as liver and lung) where new tumors form. The spread of colon cancer to distant organs is called metastasis of the colon cancer. Once metastasis has occurred in colorectal cancer, a complete cure of the cancer is unlikely. What is Avastin? Avastin is a cancer (antineoplastic) medication. Avastin interferes with the growth of cancer cells and slows their growth and spread in the body. Avastin is used in the treatment of cancers of the colon and rectum. Avastin may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide. Common side effects with Avastin Nosebleeds Nosebleeds were usually minor and stopped on their own by holding a tissue to the nose Call your doctor if you feel dizzy or faint or if the bleeding doesn't stop after 10 to 15 minutes Hypertension (high blood pressure) Standard oral medications were used to manage high blood pressure Tell your doctor if you've had high blood pressure in the past Proteinuria (too much protein in the urine) Other side effects included weakness, pain, diarrhea, and leukopenia (a reduced white blood cell count)