Colon cancer, commonly known as colorectal cancer (CRC), is a condition that affects the large intestine. It is a type of cancer that develops in the colon or rectum. The large intestine is made up of colon, cecum, rectum, and anus.
The large intestine is where colon cancer mostly develops because of the colon's ability to absorb vitamins and nutrients from the food that has been digested and passed through it. It typically begins when abnormal cells develop out of control and infiltrate the rectum's wall and nearby tissue. One of the most prevalent cancers in adults is CRC. Given that men make up the large majority of cases, it is also one of the deadliest. Despite the fact that CRC is typically found in men, it can also affect women.
Signs and Symptoms
Most of these symptoms may potentially signal other possible illnesses. Early on in the disease, colon cancer is often symptomless in many patients. When symptoms occur, they'll likely vary, depending on the cancer's size and location in your large intestine. Make an appointment with your gastroenterologist to talk about getting a rectal cancer screening if you experience any of these symptoms. Also do get screening if there is family history of colon cancer or rectal cancer.
Prevention
Regular screenings are advised for those who have had colon cancer in the past, are older than 50, have a family history of the disease, have Lynch syndrome, Crohn's disease, or adenomatous polyposis.
