Colon Cancer

Colon cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related death in the US. Each year about 150,000 new cases are diagnosed and 56,000 deaths occur as a result of colon cancer. The average age of diagnosis is among those age 60 and older.

Colon cancer can start out as a small benign mass called a polyp. Polyps can usually be removed using an endoscope (a flexible tube with an optical system for viewing inside an organ). Early colon cancer is asymptomatic so efforts focus on identifying a problem by routine screening. The warning signs of colon cancer include:

• Diarrhea or constipation
• Blood in the stool (can be red or dark in color)
• Stools that are narrower than usual
• General stomach discomfort (bloating, cramps, fullness)
• Frequent gas pains
• Feeling that your bowel doesn't empty completely
• Loss of weight for no known reason
• Constant fatigue

Screening Tests

Early detection is important and all adults should routinely receive a digital rectal exam which detects up to 15 percent of all colorectal cancers. After age 50, all adults should have:

• a fecal occult blood test done annually to look for hidden blood in the stool.
• a sigmoidoscopy performed every 3 to 5 years to inspect the rectum and lower colon where half of all colorectal cancers are found.

Risk Factors for Colon Cancer

• Low-fiber, high-protein, high-fat diet
• Personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (e.g. ulcerative colitis)
• Over 50 years of age
• Family history of colon and/or rectal polyps

Prevention of Colon Cancer

No matter what your age, colon cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. A healthy lifestyle and regular screening can prevent over half of all colon cancers in the United States.