Colon cancer is cancer of the large intestine (colon), the lower part of your digestive system. Rectal cancer is cancer of the last several inches of the colon. Together, theyre often referred to as colorectal cancers. Most cases of colon cancer begin as small, noncancerous (benign) clumps of cells called adenomatous polyps. Over time some of these polyps become colon cancers. Polyps may be small and produce few, if any, symptoms. For this reason, doctors recommend regular screening tests to help prevent colon cancer by identifying polyps before they become colon cancer. Signs and symptoms of colon cancer include: • A change in your 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 doesnt empty completely • Weakness or fatigue • Unexplained weight loss Many people with colon cancer experience no symptoms in the early stages of the disease. When symptoms appear, theyll likely vary, depending on the cancers size and location in your large intestine. In most cases, its not clear what causes colon cancer. Doctors know that colon cancer occurs when healthy cells in the colon become altered. Healthy cells grow and divide in an orderly way to keep your body functioning normally. But when a cell is damaged and becomes cancerous, cells continue to divide — even when new cells arent needed. These cancer cells can invade and destroy normal tissue nearby. And cancerous cells can travel to other parts of the body. Precancerous growths in the colon Colon cancer most often begins as clumps of precancerous cells (polyps) on the inside lining of the colon. Polyps can appear mushroom-shaped, or they can be flat or recessed into the wall of the colon. Removing polyps before they become cancerous can prevent colon cancer. Inherited gene mutations that increase the risk of colon cancer Inherited gene mutations that increase the risk of colon cancer can be passed through families, but these inherited genes are linked to only a small percentage of colon cancers. Inherited gene mutations dont make cancer inevitable, but they can increase an individuals risk of cancer significantly. The most common forms of inherited colon cancer syndromes are: • Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). FAP is a rare disorder that causes you to develop thousands of polyps in the lining of your colon and rectum. People with untreated FAP have a greatly increased risk of developing colon cancer before age 40. • Hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC).HNPCC, also called Lynch syndrome, increases the risk of colon cancer and other cancers. People with HNPCC tend to develop colon cancer before age 50.
Posted on: Sun, 17 Aug 2014 06:54:23 +0000
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