Colon cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States, but it can be prevented and treated if detected early. Colorectal cancer is the term used for cancers that begin in the colon or rectum. Colon cancer usually begins as a benign polyp, which is a growth on the inner lining of the colon. Over time, some polyps can become cancerous.

Symptoms of Colon Cancer

In the early stages, colon cancer may not cause any symptoms. However, as the cancer grows, it can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

• Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation, diarrhea, or narrowing of the stool
• Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
• Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas, or pain
• Unexplained weight loss 
• Fatigue
• Anemia (low red blood cell count)

When to Seek Medical Help

If you experience any of the above symptoms, it is important to see your doctor. Early detection and treatment of colon cancer can significantly improve your chances of survival.

Risk Factors for Colon Cancer

There are a number of risk factors for colon cancer, including:

• Age: The risk of colon cancer increases with age.
• Family history: If you have a family history of colon cancer, your risk is increased.
• Personal history of polyps: People who have had polyps in the colon are at increased risk for colon cancer.
• Inflammatory bowel disease: People with inflammatory bowel disease, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease, are at increased risk for colon cancer.
• Diet: A diet high in red meat and processed foods may increase your risk of colon cancer.
• Obesity: Obesity is also a risk factor for colon cancer.
• Smoking: Smoking can increase your risk of colon cancer.
• Alcohol use: Heavy alcohol use can increase your risk of colon cancer.

Prevention of Colon Cancer

There are a number of things you can do to reduce your risk of colon cancer, including:

• Eating a healthy diet: A diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce your risk of colon cancer.
• Maintaining a healthy weight: If you are overweight or obese, losing weight can help reduce your risk of colon cancer.
• Exercising regularly: Regular exercise can help reduce your risk of colon cancer.
• Not smoking: Smoking can increase your risk of colon cancer.
• Limiting alcohol use: Heavy alcohol use can increase your risk of colon cancer.
• Getting screened for colon cancer: Screening tests can detect colon cancer early, when it is most treatable.

Screening for Colon Cancer

The American Cancer Society recommends that adults aged 45 to 75 years old get screened for colon cancer. There are a number of different screening tests available, including:

• Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy is a procedure in which a long, flexible tube with a light and camera is inserted into the rectum to examine the colon.
• Sigmoidoscopy: A sigmoidoscopy is a similar procedure to a colonoscopy, but it only examines the lower part of the colon.
• Stool DNA test: A stool DNA test checks for the presence of blood in the stool and can also detect changes in the DNA of colon cells.

If you are at high risk for colon cancer, your doctor may recommend that you begin screening earlier than age 45.

Conclusion

Colon cancer is a serious but preventable disease. By understanding the symptoms of colon cancer and taking steps to reduce your risk, you can help protect your health. If you are concerned about your risk of colon cancer, talk to your doctor about getting screened.

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