Many people often think that these three medical terms all mean the same thing, but actually there are important differences between them.
 
Colon cancer is defined as any cancer that begins in the colon, which is part of the body’s digestive system that primarily absorbs water and salts from digested food.

Accordingly, rectal cancer is defined as any cancer originating in the rectum, which is the last section of the digestive system and is about six inches in length.  Once food is digested, the waste exits the body after passing through the rectum.
 
Colorectal cancer is simply a broad term given to any cancer of either the colon or rectum.

If you or a loved one has colorectal cancer and feel it was detected late or misdiagnosed by your doctor or medical professional in Georgia, please request a copy of our free book, I Have Cancer…Should It Have Been Caught Earlier?, or call an experienced Atlanta medical malpractice attorney at the Dover Law Firm at 770-518-1133 to schedule a free consultation.