Colon is the longest part of the large intestines; and the cancer that originates in the tissues of this organ is colon cancer. The other two names are: colorectal cancer (CRC) and large bowel cancer. The cells in this cancer are formed in the colon, rectum and the appendix. In U.S, colon cancer ranks at number four in the list of the most common types of cancer. According to an estimate, it causes 655,000 deaths annually across the globe. In 2010, there were 142,570 cases of colorectal cancer in U.S only that caused 51,370 deaths there.
Symptoms
The location of tumor formed in the bowel, determines what kind of symptoms the patients are likely to experience. Those with metastasis have different symptoms than the others. The symptoms are classified as:
Constitutional symptoms occur if a tumor causes chronic occult bleeding that in turn results in iron deficiency anemia which consequently leads to palpitation(irregular heartbeat), fatigue, pallor(pale-skin). Weight loss can also be observed because the patient loses his appetite that makes him consume less.
People who are at risk
The risk factors of colon cancer are:
Symptoms
The location of tumor formed in the bowel, determines what kind of symptoms the patients are likely to experience. Those with metastasis have different symptoms than the others. The symptoms are classified as:
- Local
- Constitutional
- Metastatic
Constitutional symptoms occur if a tumor causes chronic occult bleeding that in turn results in iron deficiency anemia which consequently leads to palpitation(irregular heartbeat), fatigue, pallor(pale-skin). Weight loss can also be observed because the patient loses his appetite that makes him consume less.
People who are at risk
The risk factors of colon cancer are:
- Smoking
- Old age especially above 60 years
- History of cancer. Those who have once got cancer, may have it again
- Family history of cancer
- Gardner syndrome
- Polyps of the colon
- Diet high in red meat, low in fish, poultry, fresh fruits and vegetables
- Exposure to viruses
- Lack of physical exercise
- Exogenous hormones
- Low levels of selenium
- Poor intake of vitamin B6
- Lithocholic acid
- Environmental factors
- Heavy alcohol intake
