Which term refers to cancer of the colon and rectum?

• A. Pancreatic cancer
• B. Colitis
• C. Colorectal cancer
• D. Appendicitis

Answer: (C)

The term used for cancer that affects the colon or the rectum is colorectal cancer. The colon and rectum are the final portions of the large intestine, and cancers arising in either area are grouped together because they share similar anatomy, risk factors, and screening and treatment approaches (such as colonoscopy and surgical removal). Other options refer to cancer of a different organ (pancreas) or to non-cancerous conditions (colitis, an inflammatory condition of the colon, and appendicitis, inflammation of the appendix). So, colorectal cancer is the most accurate description for cancer occurring in the colon or rectum.