Colon Cancer Constitutional Symptoms

Colon cancer occurs in the tissues of the colon, which is part of the digestive system. In 2008, there were 108,070 new diagnoses of colon cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute. Risk factors include being over age 50, a family history of colon or rectal cancer, a history of Crohn's disease and a history of polyps.

Symptoms

• A change in bowel habits, blood in the stool, diarrhea, constipation, fatigue and unexplained weight loss can be symptoms of colon cancer. Abdominal discomfort that does not go away (gas pains, bloating) can also be a symptom. See your doctor if you have symptoms.

Diagnosis

• Tests that help diagnose colon cancer include a fecal occult blood test, a digital rectal exam and a barium enema. A colonoscopy can also check for polyps or tumors. If a mass is found, a biopsy will be done to check for cancerous tissue.

Treatment

• Treatment of colon cancer depends on the stage and extent of the disease, but the most common treatments are surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Clinical trials are being done to explore new drugs and therapies.

Famous Ties

• Famous people who have had colon cancer include: Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Sharon Osbourne, former President Ronald Reagan and the baseball player Darryl Strawberry.

Prevention

• A low-fat, high-fiber diet may help lower the risk of colon cancer. Since obesity and a sedentary lifestyle may be risk factors, doing physical exercise and maintaining a healthy weight may also lower your risk. Having the appropriate screening tools like regular checkups and colonoscopies may also lower the risk.