Overview
Introduction
Colorectal cancer begins in the colon or rectum, most often from gland forming mucosal cells.
Colorectal cancer begins in the colon or rectum, most often from gland-forming mucosal cells. Many cancers develop gradually from adenomatous polyps, creating an opportunity for screening to find a lesion early or remove a precursor before it becomes invasive. For Canadian RPN practice, connect three ideas: the tumour’s location helps explain the symptoms, the screening pathway determines how an abnormal FIT is followed up, and stage guides treatment. A patient may have clinically important colorectal disease without visible blood or dramatic pain, so subtle anemia, altered bowel habits, weight loss, or fatigue deserve a reasoned assessment rather than reassurance.