Colon Cancer Facts & Information

Colon cancer--also referred to as colorectal cancer--is a serious condition that can lead to death if not detected and treated.

Definition

• The Mayo Clinic defines colon cancer as cancer of the large intestine (colon) in the lower digestive system, and rectal cancer as cancer of the last few inches of the colon. Together they are known as colorectal cancer.

Causes

• The National Cancer Institute states that the causes of colon cancer are unknown, but that certain factors, such as an age of over 50, a family history of cancer and a high-fat diet, can increase risk.

Symptoms

• The Mayo Clinic advises that symptoms may include diarrhea, constipation, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, fatigue and weight loss, although they are not always experienced.

Prevention/Solution

• The National Cancer Institute advises that people older than 50 should be screened. Screening helps find polyps--growths on the colon--and cancer, even before symptoms occur.

Significance

• The World Health Organization states that there are 639,000 deaths worldwide from colorectal cancer per year.