The large intestine consists of the colon and rectum, which make up the final portion of the digestive tract. Cancer of the colon is the third most common type of cancer in men and the second most common cancer in women. It is a leading cause of death by cancer. It is also one of the most curable forms if found and treated early.
Colon cancer occurs most commonly in people over the age of forty.
Symptoms include rectal bleeding, cramping pain in the abdomen, and a change in bowel habits. Some colon cancers may cause obstruction of the intestines, discomfort, weight loss, and anemia. Because this cancer develops over a period of time, it can be detected before symptoms appear. Early detection offers the best chance for cure. If cancer is found, treatment may include surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.