What is Colon (Colorectal) Cancer?
Colon cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the colon, while rectal cancer is when malignant cells form in the tissues of the rectum.
What are the risk factors for colorectal (colon) cancer?
Risk factors for colon and rectal cancer include:
- Family history of colon or rectal cancer in a first-degree relative
- Personal history of cancer in the colon, rectum or ovary
- Personal history of high-risk adenomas (colorectal polyps that are one centimeter or larger in size or have cells that look abnormal under a microscope).
- Having inherited changes in certain genes
- Personal history of chronic ulcerative colitis or Crohn disease for eight years or more
- Having three or more alcoholic drinks per day
- Smoking cigarettes
- Being Black
- Being obese
Older age is the main risk factor for most cancers.
What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer?
Signs of colon and rectal (colorectal) cancer include:
- A change in bowel habits
- Blood (either bright red or very dark) in the stool
- Diarrhea, constipation or feeling that the bowel doesn't empty all the way
- Stools that are narrower than usual
- Frequent gas pains, bloating, fullness or cramps
- Weight loss for no known reason
- Feeling very tired
- Vomiting
How do I prevent colorectal cancer?
Early colon and rectal cancer has no symptoms, so regular screening is important for early detection.
Adults at average risk should schedule their first colonoscopy at age 45 and continue every five to 10 years if the results are normal. Cologuard testing should also begin at age 45. With normal results, this test should be repeated every three years.
Learn more about Colon Screening | Colonoscopy
What is the treatment of colorectal cancer?
There are several different treatment options for patients with colorectal cancer including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, clinical trials and more.
Information includes about colorectal cancer, causes, risk factors, diagnosis and treatment.
Learn More: NCI