Understand the risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options for colon cancer. Learn about early detection, prevention strategies, and how to improve outcomes with timely medical intervention. Take charge of your health.
What is Colon Cancer?
Colon cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the large intestine (colon) or the rectum. It is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, with an estimated 147,950 new cases and 53,200 deaths in 2020.1 Colon cancer typically begins as small, noncancerous polyps that can develop into cancer over time. Regular screening tests can help find and remove these polyps before they turn into cancer.
Risk factors for colon cancer include age (most cases occur in people over the age of 50), a personal or family history of colon cancer, inflammatory bowel disease (such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease), a diet high in red and processed meats, obesity, smoking, and heavy alcohol use.
Learn the Signs, Stages, and Causes of Colon Cancer
The signs and symptoms of colon cancer can vary depending on the location and size of the tumor. Some common symptoms include:
- A change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or a narrowing of the stool
- Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Unintended weight loss
- Fatigue
- Nausea or vomiting
Colon cancer is staged according to the extent of the cancer, from stage 0 (the earliest stage) to stage 4 (the most advanced stage). The stage of the cancer determines the treatment options and prognosis.
The exact cause of colon cancer is unknown, but certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing the disease. These risk factors include:
- Age: The risk of colon cancer increases with age, with most cases occurring in people over the age of 50.
- Personal or family history of colon cancer: People with a personal or family history of colon cancer are at an increased risk of developing the disease.
- Inflammatory bowel disease: People with inflammatory bowel disease (such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease) are at an increased risk of developing colon cancer.
- Diet: A diet high in red and processed meats, low in fiber, and high in saturated fat can increase the risk of colon cancer.
- Obesity: Obese individuals are at an increased risk of developing colon cancer.
- Smoking: Smoking cigarettes can increase the risk of colon cancer.
- Heavy alcohol use: Heavy alcohol use can increase the risk of colon cancer.
Early Detection Saves Lives
Early detection of colon cancer is crucial for successful treatment. Regular screening tests can help find and remove polyps before they turn into cancer. 2 Screening tests for colon cancer include:
- Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy is a procedure in which a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end is inserted into the colon and rectum to look for polyps or cancer.
- Sigmoidoscopy: A sigmoidoscopy is a procedure in which a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end is inserted into the rectum and lower colon to look for polyps or cancer.
- Virtual colonoscopy: A virtual colonoscopy is a CT scan of the colon and rectum that can be used to look for polyps or cancer.
- Fecal occult blood test: A fecal occult blood test is a test that checks for hidden blood in the stool, which can be a sign of colon cancer.
- FIT test: A FIT test is a test that checks for tiny amounts of blood in the stool, which can be a sign of colon cancer.
People at average risk of colon cancer should begin screening at age 45. People with a higher risk of colon cancer may need to start screening earlier.
Learn More About Colon Cancer
For more information about colon cancer, please visit the following resources:
- The American Cancer Society
- The National Cancer Institute
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention