Understanding the Basics of Colon Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

A growth of cells called colon cancer starts in the colon, a section of the large intestine. The first and longest segment of the big intestine is called the colon. The last segment of the digestive system is the large intestine. Food is broken down by the digestive system and used by the body.

Colon cancer can strike anyone at any age, but it usually strikes older persons. Usually, it starts off as little cell clusters inside the colon called polyps. Although most polyps are benign, some may eventually develop into colon cancer.

Polyps frequently show no symptoms. Doctors advise routine screening tests to check for colon polyps because of this. Polyp detection and removal aids in the prevention of colon cancer. Should colon cancer arise, numerous therapies can aid in its management. Among the treatments include radiation therapy, surgery, and medications like immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy. Colorectal cancer is another name for colon cancer. This phrase refers to cancer that starts in the rectum and includes both colon and rectal cancer.

Symptoms of Colon Cancer

• Blood on or in your stool

• Abdominal pain

• Bloated stomach

• Excessive weight loss

• Vomiting

• Thin stool

Can colon cancer be prevented?

You may not be able to prevent colon cancer, but you can reduce your risk of developing the condition by managing risk factors:

• Steer clear of tobacco.

• Consume a balanced diet. Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables while reducing your intake of processed meals, high-fat, high-calorie items, and red meat. Coffee consumption may reduce your chance of colon cancer.

• Observe your family's medical background.Cancer of the colon may run in families. Inform your healthcare practitioner of any cancer in your family that occurred before the age of 45, including advanced polyps or colon cancer in your siblings, children, or biological parents.

  Sources: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/colon-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20353669

  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14501-colorectal-colon-cancer