Colorectal cancer develops slowly over a long period of time, usually starting out as a small grape-size growth called a polyp on the inner wall of the large intestine, colon and/or rectum.

Not all polyps turn into cancer. In fact, only one particular type of polyp, called an adenoma , has the potential to turn into cancer. When polyps do develop into cancer, this process usually takes 5 to 15 years. During this time, screening tests can be used to detect the polyps, allowing their removal before cancer ever develops.

Getting tested is the first step to beating this disease. Know your options. Talk to your physician to find out about tests and treatments available that can save your life or the life of a loved one.