Colon Cancer | HealthInfi

Overview

Colon cancer happens when tumorous growths develop in the large intestine. It is the third most common type of cancer in the United States.

It is also the third most common cause of cancer-related death, and in 2017, 95,520 new diagnoses are expected to occur in the United States (U.S.). However, advances in diagnosis, screening, and treatment have led to steady improvements in survival.

Regular screenings are recommended after the age of 50 years.

Colon cancer and rectal cancer may occur together. This is called colorectal cancer. Rectal cancer originates in the rectum, which is the last several inches of the large intestine, closest to the anus.

Fast facts on colon cancer:

Here are some key points about colon cancer. More detail is in the main article.

• • Colon cancer affects the large intestine and it usually starts with polyps in the wall of the intestine.
  • Symptoms may not appear until a later stage, but if they do, gastrointestinal problems are common symptoms.
  • Treatment involves a combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery, possibly resulting in a colostomy.
  • A healthy lifestyle with a high-fiber, low-fat diet can help prevent colon cancer, and screening can detect it in the early stages.

What is colon cancer?

The colon, or large intestine, is where the body extracts water and salt from solid wastes. The waste then moves through the rectum and exits the body through the anus.

Colon cancer happens when out-of-control cell growth occurs in the large intestine.

Most colon cancer originates from noncancerous, or benign, tumors called adenomatous polyps that form on the inner walls of the large intestine.

Cancerous cells may spread from malignant tumors to other parts of the body through the blood and lymph systems.

These cancer cells can grow and invade healthy tissue nearby and throughout the body, in a process called metastasis. The result is a more serious, less treatable condition.Read More