Colorectal cancer in Tijuana: the cancer you can prevent
Colorectal cancer usually begins as a polyp that takes years to turn malignant. Finding and removing that polyp during a colonoscopy prevents the cancer. That is why screening matters before symptoms appear.
Colorectal Cancer Screening and Surgery
Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in men and women. In its early stages it rarely causes symptoms, which is why it is often found late when there is no screening. Detected early, it is one of the most treatable cancers.
Screening is recommended from age 45 for people at average risk, and earlier, often at 40 or ten years before the age at which a relative was diagnosed, when there is a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps.
Symptoms that should be examined
- Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
- A lasting change in bowel habits
- Narrower stools than usual
- Unexplained anemia, fatigue or weight loss
- Abdominal pain or a feeling of incomplete emptying
The diagnosis is confirmed at your evaluation.
From screening to treatment
From the simplest to the most specialized; we only move forward if needed.
Screening
Colonoscopy is the most complete test: it examines the whole colon and removes polyps in the same procedure.
Diagnosis and staging
If a tumor is found, biopsies, CT and, for rectal cancer, MRI define the stage.
Surgery
Removal of the affected segment with its lymph nodes, by laparoscopy whenever the case allows.
Team treatment and follow-up
Coordination with oncology when chemotherapy or radiation are needed, and scheduled surveillance afterward.
Who is at higher risk
Age over 45, a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, smoking, obesity, a diet high in processed meat and a sedentary life raise the risk. Having no risk factors does not make screening unnecessary.
What people ask most
At what age should I have my first colonoscopy?
At 45 if your risk is average. Earlier if a parent, sibling or child had colorectal cancer or advanced polyps; the exact age is defined at your visit.
If my colonoscopy is normal, when do I repeat it?
Generally in ten years for average risk. The interval is shorter if polyps were removed or if you have a family history.
Is all rectal bleeding cancer?
No, most bleeding comes from hemorrhoids or fissures. But bleeding is never assumed to be benign without an exam.
This page offers general information and does not replace a medical visit. Every case is assessed individually; results and recovery times vary from person to person.
We are in Tijuana’s Zona Río
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- Phone+52 (664) 635 1857
- HoursMonday to Saturday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm