Colon cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the large intestine, the final part of the digestive tract. Primarily affecting older adults, it often begins as small, noncancerous (benign) clumps of cells called polyps that form inside the colon. Over time, some of these polyps can become colon cancers. Colon cancer is highly treatable if diagnosed early.
Early stages of colon cancer don't always produce symptoms. When they do appear, they may include:
·Changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation or a change in the consistency of your stool.·Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool.·Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas, or pain.·A feeling that your bowel doesn't empty.·Weakness or fatigue.·Unexplained weight loss.
Several factors may increase your risk of developing colon cancer, including:
·Older age, typically over 50 years.·African-American race.·A personal history of colorectal cancer or polyps.·Inflammatory intestinal conditions.·Inherited syndromes that increase colon cancer risk.·Family history of colon cancer and colon polyps.·Low-fiber, high-fat diet.·A sedentary lifestyle.·Diabetes.·Obesity.·Smoking.
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