The JECCC urges everyone 50 and over to be screened for colon cancer. Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the U.S., but it's preventable with early detection.
What are the Risk Factors for Colon Cancer?
Risk factors for colon cancer include:
- age
- personal history of colorectal polyps
- personal history of inflammatory bowel disease
- family history of colorectal cancer
- certain inherited syndromes
- race or ethnic background
- or lifestyle factors such as diet, alcohol use, obesity, activity level, or smoking.
What are the Symptoms of Colon Cancer?
Colorectal cancer might not cause symptoms right away, but if it does, it may cause one or more of these symptoms:
- A change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool, that lasts for more than a few days
- A feeling that you need to have a bowel movement that is not relieved by having one
- Rectal bleeding with bright red blood
- Blood in the stool, which may make the stool look dark
- Cramping or abdominal (belly) pain
- Weakness and fatigue
- Unintended weight loss
Where can I learn more about Colon Cancer?
To learn more about colon cancer, visit cancer.org
For more information about James E Cary Cancer Center, please call 573-406-5800