Colon cancer is a type of cancer that affects the colon or large intestine. It starts as small growths called polyps, which can become cancerous over time. Symptoms may include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, abdominal pain, and weight loss.

– Age (Risk increases with age, most cases occur after 50)
– Family history (Having a close relative with colon cancer)
– Personal history of polyps or colorectal cancer
– Inherited gene mutations (e.g., Lynch syndrome, FAP)
– Inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s)
– Unhealthy diet and lifestyle (red/processed meats, low fiber, sedentary behavior, obesity, smoking)
– Diabetes and insulin resistance
– Radiation exposure (previous treatment)
– Ethnicity (African Americans at higher risk)
– Environmental factors (chemicals, pollutants)

– Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation)
– Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
– Abdominal pain or cramps
– Persistent discomfort in the abdomen
– Unexplained weight loss
– Fatigue or weakness
– Iron deficiency anemia
– Narrow stools
– Feeling like the bowel doesn’t completely empty

Treatment options for colon cancer include:

– Surgery: Removal of the cancerous portion of the colon.
– Chemotherapy: Medications to kill cancer cells throughout the body.
– Radiation therapy: High-energy beams to destroy cancer cells.
– Targeted therapy: Drugs that specifically target cancer cells.
– Immunotherapy: Boosting the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells.
– Palliative care: Focuses on symptom management and improving quality of life.