Colon Cancer Overview

Colon cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the colon (large intestine). It is sometimes called colorectal cancer, and it refers to cancer that affects the colon or/and the rectum. The colon and the rectum are both part of the large intestine. Colon cancer is one of the most common types of cancer.

What Causes Colon Cancer

Although researchers don't know yet what definitely causes colon cancer, they have identified several risk factors for developing colon cancer. Risk factors include age, diet, genetics, alcohol and other factors.

Symptoms of Colon Cancer

The most commonly experienced symptom of colon cancer are rectal bleeding and narrow stools. Be advised that sometimes colon cancer does not present any symptoms until the disease has advanced. This makes colon cancer screening essential.

How to Find Out if You Have Colon Cancer

Report any symptoms you have to your doctor. It is recommended that people 50 and over have a colonoscopy every 10 years if they are at average risk. There are other methods of colon cancer screening beside the colonoscopy. Talk to your doctor about which is best for you and how often to get screened.

Fast Facts about Colon Cancer

• Colon cancer is the 3rd most commonly diagnosed cancer in men and women in the U.S.
  
• About 105,000 cases were diagnosed in 2005 in the U.S.
  
• Only 39% of colon cancer cases are detected early
  
• It is the second leading cause of cancer realted death in the U.S.

_{Created:01/21/2006
Source: American Cancer Society}