Colon Cancer Treatment Guide

Colon cancer, also called colorectal cancer, starts either in the colon or rectum, which together make up the large intestine, the final portion of the digestive system. Like other cancers, colon cancer occurs when abnormal cells begin to grow and divide uncontrollably and form a mass, called a malignant tumor, in tissues or organs. Cancerous cells from these masses can enter the bloodstream or lymphatic system and spread to other organs or tissues.

Most people have no noticeable symptoms of colon cancer before diagnosis. But when colon cancer is detected early – before symptoms appear – it is often highly treatable, so screening tests, including colonoscopy, are very important and need to be done on a regular schedule. The tests, which commonly include a digital rectal exam, a fecal occult blood test, a barium enema, and a sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy, allow doctors to look for signs of colon cancer, including blood hidden in the stool and abnormalities such as polyps inside the colon and rectum. The tests vary in how extensive and sensitive they are – ask your doctor which is right for you.

If colon cancer advances before it is detected by screening, these symptoms can occur:

* A change in bowel habits
* Diarrhea, constipation or feeling that the bowel does not empty completely
* Blood, either bright red or very dark, in the stool
* Stools that are narrower or darker than usual
* Abdominal pain
* Weight loss with no known reason
* Fatigue and/or pallor (symptoms of anemia)
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