Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is the third most diagnosed cancer in men and women, respectively. Although it is slightly more common in men, 1 in every 26 women will be diagnosed with colon or rectal cancer at some point in her life.
Colon cancer starts as a tiny growth in the inner wall of the colon, and these growths are called polyps. Polyps are usually benign (noncancerous), but when a cancerous polyp does form, cancer cells can move into the lining of the colon or rectum and spread. Cancer cells can also enter the bloodstream and lymph system.
In its early stages, colon cancer may have no noticeable symptoms. It, however, remains the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths among women and men combined, though experts believe deaths could be prevented with screening and early diagnosis.
Here are the major symptoms and signs of colon cancer.
1. Change in bowel habits
A sudden change in bowel habits that lasts for more than a few days, such as diarrhea, constipation, a distinct change in the size, shape, or color of your stool, or a feeling that your bowel is not empty after a bowel movement, can indicate a symptom of colon cancer.
2. Abdominal pain or cramps
Although this may be easily mistaken for symptoms related to the menstrual cycle or other gynecologic problems like endometriosis, frequent abdominal pain, bloating, or cramping may be a symptom of colon cancer.
3. Unexplained weight loss
Unexplained weight loss without trying to lose weight may mean invading cells are settling in and impacting your body’s ability to digest calories, and also reflects a larger growth that is either ulcerated or partially blocking the path of stool in the colon.
4. Constant tiredness and fatigue
Tiredness and fatigue are two of the warning signs of any cancer, including colon cancer. If you find yourself tired day after day and experience two or more of the other colon cancer symptoms on this list, it’s time to book an appointment with your doctor or a gastroenterologist.
ALSO READ: 9 Warning Signs It’s Time To See A Gastroenterologist
5. Blood in the stool
Bright red blood in the stool or very dark, tarry stools can also indicate a symptom of colon cancer.
6. Feeling of incomplete emptying of the bowel
The constant feeling or sensation that your bowel is not completely emptied is a sign and should not be taken lightly.
Treatment
Colon cancer can be treated by surgery (in its early stages), chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
Risk Factors
Colon cancer is one of the most treatable cancers, but the only way to detect it is through screening. A colonoscopy is a standard screening test that both women and men should have starting at age 50.
Risk factors include age (over 50), family history, personal history of polyps or bowel disease, and genetics.
For women at increased risk for colon cancer, screening colonoscopies should start at age 45 or even earlier.