by Patricia A. Coldiron

Created on: April 23, 2008   Last Updated: April 29, 2008

What is colon cancer? What are the symptoms of colon cancer? How do you know if you have it? In this article, you'll find answers about colon cancer including risk factors, symptoms and treatment.

What is colon cancer?

Colon cancer is cancer that starts in the large intestine (colon) or the rectum (end of the colon), and is sometimes referred to as "colorectal cancer." It is the third most common form of cancer in the United States.

What causes colon cancer?

Some people are more likely to develop colon cancer than others. Factors that increase a person's risk include:

Age- The chances of developing colon cancer increase dramatically after age 50.

Ethnicity-Jews of Eastern European descent have a higher rate of colon cancer. Blacks and Hispanics are more likely to die from the disease due to poor diet, insufficient screening, and lack of exercise.

Relative with colon cancer, such as parent, sibling, or child

Low Fiber, high fat diet

Diet high in red or processed meat

Smoking

Obesity

Sedentary lifestyle

Heavy use of alcohol

A history of polyps

Radiation treatment to the abdomen

Have ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease

What are the symptoms?

There are instances when colon cancer presents no symptoms at all. The most common colon cancer symptoms include:

Abdominal pain

Bleeding from the rectum or blood on the stool

Stools that are narrower than usual

Diarrhea

Constipation

Feeling of not evacuating completely

Weight loss without trying

Constant fatigue

Vomiting

What are the screening guidelines to help prevent colon cancer?

Men and women with average risk who have reached 50 years of age should be offered a fecal occult blood test, sigmoidoscopy, or colonoscopy to check for polyps and abnormalities.

Those of any age at higher risk should have more frequent colonoscopies.

What is the treatment for colon cancer?

There are three standard treatments for colon cancer:

Surgery- Colon surgery is the most common treatment. If caught early enough, the doctor can remove the cancer with a colonoscope, but usually colon surgery is necessary.

Chemotherapy- Chemotherapy means killing off cancer cells in the body by chemical treatment. Chemotherapy is sometimes used for stage 2 colon cancer, and usually used in stages 3 and 4.

Radiation- Radiation therapy uses high energy waves to kill cancer cells and the patient may experience fatigue, loss of appetite and irritated skin.

What is the healthiest way to deal with colon cancer?

If you are uncomfortable and tired, you may not feel like doing anything. It's important to get enough rest and to eat the right foods. Consult a dietician who can help you plan meals that are nutritious and easy to digest. Other healthy choices for coping with colon cancer include:

Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration

Stay as active as possible Walking, yoga, and swimming can help increase your energy.

Have a positive attitude

Keep a journal

Listen to music or do yoga to relax

Accept that there are things you can't change

Join a support group in your local area

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