What is colon cancer?

Colon cancer is a type of cancer that grows in the colon, or large intestine. In most cases, colon cancer begins as a polyp and grows into a tumor if left untreated.

Who gets colon cancer?

Colon cancer strikes both men and women. Although it is more common after age 50, it can develop in younger people as well.

What are the symptoms?

People with colon cancer often report a change in their bowel habits. This is more than a change that occurs over a day or two. Rather, it is a change occurring over time. They may have constipation or diarrhea. In other cases, their stools may appear different, and have a different size or shape, like thinner pieces of ribbon, for example. Sometimes blood in stools is noted.

Other times, there may be no symptoms, especially if the cancer is just developing.

What should people do if they notice symptoms?

All symptoms should be reported to a doctor. Further tests can be run to diagnose colon cancer. The doctor will also take a complete history to determine if a family member has had colon cancer. People with parents or siblings who have a history of colon cancer have more risk themselves.

What kinds of tests are used to diagnose colon cancer?

There are a variety of medical tests available to diagnose colon cancer. A flexible sigmoidoscopy and barium enema are sometimes done. In other cases, a colonoscopy is done.

What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is an exam where the entire colon is examined by a physician. After a thorough colon prep (cleaning the colon), the physician inserts a light into the colon and examines it in its entirety. If polyps are found, they can be snipped off and biopsies can be done. Some form of anesthetic is used for the procedure, which is usually done in a hospital on an outpatient basis.

What screenings exist for colon cancer?

A digital rectal exam, on a yearly basis, is recommended for people age 40 and over. This exam is done by a physician inserting his or her gloved finger into the rectum. Some physicians begin screening patients with a test to determine blood in the stool. Others recommend a proctosigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy after a certain age. Each person should talk with his or her physician to determine what tests will be done as a screening.

A proctosigmoidoscopy involves the physician looking into the colon (but not the entire colon). This procedure is usually done in the doctor's office.

What happens if colon cancer is found?

Of course, it depends on the stage of the disease. If colon cancer is found early, often surgery is the only treatment. If the cancer has not spread there is an excellent chance of recovery.

What about colostomies?

Colostomies, where the colon is routed to an external bag, are becoming less frequent because of new surgical methods.

Who is at higher risk for colon cancer?

People with a family history are at higher risk (those with parents or siblings who have had the disease). Also, people with breast cancer appear to be at higher risk. It is important for everyone, not only those at higher risk, to take note of any blood in the stool (check the toilet paper) or any changes that occur in bowel habits. These are key symptoms of colon cancer and should be checked by a doctor.