Description of Colon Cancer

Colon cancer, also referred to as colorectal cancer, is the third most commonly diagnosed form of cancer in the United States. Affecting the large intestine and rectum, colon cancer has a high survival rate with early detection and proper treatment.

Risk Factors

• Although the exact cause of colon cancer is unknown, several risk factors have been found that may contribute to this disease. These include being older than 50 years of age and having colorectal polyps and a family history of the disease. A high-fat, low-fiber diet and cigarette smoking are also contributing factors.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of colon cancer include diarrhea, constipation, bloody stools or unexplained weight loss. Other presenting symptoms may be fatigue, gas, bloating and stomach cramps. Symptoms are not always present with this condition.

Diagnosis

• If symptoms or family history raise concerns, the doctor may order a colorectal screening, a fecal occult blood test or other lab work or imaging tests to check for abnormalities.

Stages

• A process called staging is used to determine whether colon cancer has spread to other areas in the colon or rectum or to other parts of the body. Stages are ranked 0 to 4, with stage 4 being the most serious. In stage 4, the cancer has been carried through the lymph nodes to other parts of the body and is difficult to treat.

Treatment

• There are several treatment options for colon cancer depending on the stage of the disease. Treatments include radiation therapy, chemotherapy or surgery. In some cases, a combination of treatments may be needed for proper treatment.