Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is the third most common cancer in both men and women. It is a type of cancer that starts in the colon or rectum, and typically grows slowly over a period of several years.

If caught early, colon cancer is highly treatable and oftentimes curable. However, if left untreated, it can quickly spread to other parts of the body, making it much more difficult to treat.

Risk Factors for Colon Cancer

While anyone can develop colon cancer, there are certain risk factors that make some people more susceptible than others. These include:.

Age – The risk of developing colon cancer increases after the age of 50
Family history – If you have a first-degree relative (parent or sibling) who has had colon cancer, your risk increases
Personal history – If you have had colon cancer in the past, your risk of developing it again increases
Inflammatory bowel disease – Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease both increase your risk of developing colon cancer
Lifestyle factors – Smoking, consuming a high-fat diet, lack of exercise, and obesity all increase your risk of developing colon cancer

Symptoms of Colon Cancer

In its early stages, colon cancer may not cause any noticeable symptoms. However, as it grows and progresses, the following symptoms may appear:.

Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
Abdominal pain or cramping
Unexplained weight loss
Nausea or vomiting
Change in bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation
Feeling like you need to have a bowel movement that does not go away after doing so
Fatigue or weakness

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to talk to your doctor right away, especially if they persist or worsen over time.

Screening for Colon Cancer

The best way to catch colon cancer early is through routine screening. There are several screening methods available, including:.

Colonoscopy – This procedure is the gold standard for colon cancer screening. During a colonoscopy, a long, flexible tube with a camera on the end is inserted into the rectum and guided through the colon. If any polyps or abnormal tissue is detected, a biopsy can be taken right there during the procedure. It is recommended that individuals with average risk of colon cancer begin getting colonoscopies at age 50, or earlier if they have other risk factors.
Fecal immunochemical test (FIT) – This test involves collecting a small stool sample and submitting it to a laboratory for analysis. The test can detect hidden blood in the stool, which can be a sign of colon cancer. It is recommended that individuals with average risk of colon cancer get a FIT test every year beginning at age 50.
CT colonography – Also known as a virtual colonoscopy, this non-invasive screening method uses a CT scan to create detailed images of the colon. It is less invasive than a traditional colonoscopy but may not be as effective at detecting small polyps. It is recommended that individuals with average risk of colon cancer get a CT colonography every five years beginning at age 50.

Conclusion

Colon cancer is a serious disease that can be highly treatable if caught early. By understanding the risk factors for colon cancer, recognizing the symptoms, and getting screened regularly, you can take steps to protect yourself against this disease.

Talk to your doctor about which screening method is best for you, and don’t hesitate to seek medical attention if you suspect anything is wrong.