Colorectal Cancer: Symptoms, Causes & Early Detection

Colorectal cancer or colon cancer refers to cancer that develops in the large intestines. Like most cancers, early detection improves your chances of survival. But to detect this particular cancer early, you've got to recognize the signs and symptoms.

Identification

• Symptoms are less common in the early stage of colon cancer. But as the condition progresses, symptoms such as rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, weakness, tiredness and weight loss may occur.

Causes

• Colorectal cancer begins as precancerous cells in the large intestines. Doctors generally remove precancerous cells upon discovery. But if left undiagnosed, these benign cells (polyps) gradually develop into cancer.

Prevention/Solution

• There's no surefire way to prevent colon cancer. However, annual screenings are key to early detection and treatment. According to the Mayo Clinic, annual screenings are recommended for individuals over the age of 50.

Cancer Treatments

• Symptoms such as abdominal pain, weakness and weight loss normally lessen once you begin cancer treatments. Surgery is common for early and advanced stages of cancer. In addition, your doctor may recommend chemotherapy or radiation if the cancer has spread to other parts of your body.

Expert Insight

• Although there's no guaranteed way to prevent colon cancer, certain factors reduce your risk. Maintain a healthy weight, participate in regular physical activity, reduce your intake of red meat and consume 20 to 35 grams of fiber a day.