Colon cancer, also called colorectal cancer, is one of the most common cancers around the world.
It begins in the colon or rectum, which are parts of the large intestine.
The disease often develops slowly over several years and may start as small growths called polyps that can later become cancer if they are not removed.
One of the biggest challenges with colon cancer is that it often causes few or no symptoms in its early stages.
This is why regular screening is recommended for many adults, especially those aged 45 and older or people with a family history of the disease. Finding cancer early greatly improves the chances of successful treatment.
Although early colon cancer may not cause obvious problems, there are several warning signs that should not be ignored.
A lasting change in bowel habits is one of the most common. This may include diarrhea, constipation, or feeling that the bowel does not empty completely. If these changes continue for more than a few days, they should be discussed with a doctor.
Blood in the stool is another important warning sign. The blood may appear bright red or make the stool look very dark or black. Sometimes the bleeding is too small to see and is only found during a stool test. Any unexplained bleeding from the digestive system should be checked by a healthcare provider.
Unexplained weight loss can also be a sign of colon cancer. Losing weight without changing your diet or exercise routine may happen because cancer affects the way the body uses energy and absorbs nutrients. While many conditions can cause weight loss, it should always be investigated if there is no clear reason.
Feeling tired all the time is another possible symptom. Slow bleeding from a colon tumor can lead to anemia, which means the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells. People with anemia may feel weak, dizzy, or short of breath even after light activity.
Some people also develop stomach pain, cramping, bloating, or a feeling of fullness after eating only a small amount of food. These symptoms may come and go at first but can become more frequent as the disease progresses. Persistent abdominal discomfort should not be ignored.
Research supports the importance of recognising these early warning signs. A study published in BMJ Open found that many people with early colon cancer experienced rectal bleeding and changes in bowel habits months before they were diagnosed. Another study published in Cancer Epidemiology reported that delaying medical care for these symptoms often resulted in cancer being found at a later stage.
The good news is that colon cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. Screening tests such as stool tests, colonoscopy, and flexible sigmoidoscopy can detect polyps before they become cancer. Removing these growths can stop the disease before it starts.
If you notice ongoing bowel changes, blood in your stool, unexplained weight loss, constant tiredness, or persistent stomach pain, it is important to see a healthcare provider. These symptoms are often caused by conditions other than cancer, but getting them checked early can make a life-saving difference.
If you care about cancer risk, please read studies that exercise may stop cancer in its tracks, and vitamin D can cut cancer death risk.
For more health information, please see recent studies that yogurt and high-fiber diet may cut lung cancer risk, and results showing that new cancer treatment may reawaken the immune system.
