Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, over 100,000 new cases of colon cancer are diagnosed every year, and around 50,000 patients die from this disease annually.

What is Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer (also known as colorectal cancer) is a type of cancer that develops in the colon or rectum. It typically begins as small, noncancerous polyps that can become cancerous over time.

If these polyps are not detected early, they may grow and spread to other parts of the body, leading to potentially fatal consequences.

What are the Symptoms of Colon Cancer?

The symptoms of colon cancer may vary from person to person, and some people may not experience any symptoms at all. However, some common symptoms include:.

Abdominal pain or discomfort
Bloating or gas
Change in bowel habits (i.e., diarrhea or constipation)
Blood in stools
Fatigue and weakness
Unexplained weight loss

Who is at Risk for Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender. However, certain factors may increase a person’s risk of developing this disease, such as:.

Age: Those over the age of 45 are at higher risk of developing colon cancer.
Family history: If a close relative has had colon cancer, you are more likely to develop the disease yourself.
Personal history of polyps or colon cancer: If you have had polyps or colon cancer in the past, you are at higher risk of developing the disease again.
Unhealthy lifestyle habits: Smoking, drinking alcohol excessively, and eating a diet high in red meat and processed foods may increase your risk of colon cancer.
Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis, may increase your risk of colon cancer.

Why is Colon Cancer Screening Important?

Colon cancer screening is crucial for detecting the disease early, when it is most treatable.

The American Cancer Society recommends that individuals of average risk begin colon cancer screening at age 45, while those at higher risk may need to start screening at an earlier age.

Screening methods include:.

Colonoscopy: During this procedure, a doctor examines the inside of the colon and rectum with a tiny camera to detect any polyps or abnormal growths. If polyps are found, they can be removed during the procedure to prevent the development of cancer.
Stool tests: These tests detect hidden blood in the stool, which may be a sign of colon cancer.
Virtual colonoscopy: This is a noninvasive test that uses X-rays to create images of the colon and rectum. It is less invasive than traditional colonoscopy, but the images may not be as detailed.
Sigmoidoscopy: During this procedure, a doctor examines the inside of the rectum and lower colon with a tiny camera to look for polyps or growths.

How to Prepare for Colon Cancer Screening?

The preparation for colon cancer screening depends on the type of screening you will be having. However, some general guidelines include:.

Cleaning the bowel: This involves taking a laxative or enema to clean out the bowel before screening.
Following a special diet: Your doctor may ask you to avoid certain foods or liquids before screening.
Stopping certain medications: Some medications may interfere with screening, so you will need to check with your doctor which medicines you should stop taking before screening.
Having a transportation plan: You may need someone to drive you home after the screening, as some procedures involve sedation.

What Happens After Colon Cancer Screening?

If the results of your colon cancer screening are normal, you will not need another screening for several years, depending on your risk level.

However, if polyps or other abnormalities are found, your doctor will discuss the best course of treatment with you.

It is essential to attend regular follow-up appointments and screenings as recommended by your doctor to detect any changes in your condition and catch any potential issues early on.