Cancer Resources

The colon is the part of the digestive system where the waste material is stored. The rectum is the end of the colon adjacent to the anus. Together, they form a long, muscular tube called the large intestine (also known as the large bowel). Tumors of the colon and rectum are growths arising from the inner wall of the large intestine. Benign tumors of the large intestine are called polyps. Malignant tumors of the large intestine are called cancers.

Colon cancer is cancer of the large intestine (colon), the lower part of your digestive system. Rectal cancer is cancer of the last 6 inches of the colon. Together, they’re often referred to as colorectal cancers. About 112,000 people are diagnosed with colon cancer annually, and about 41,000 new cases of rectal cancer are diagnosed each year, according to the American Cancer Society.

Most colorectal cancers begin as a polyp (say “pahl-ip”). At first, a polyp is a small, harmless growth in the wall of the colon. However, as a polyp gets larger, it can develop into a cancer that grows and spreads.

Continue reading ‘Colon Cancer – Common Causes of Colon Cancer’ »

Colon cancer is a disease that progresses slowly and is highly unnoticeable. However, early diagnosis and medication for this type of cancer is very important. Having knowledge of the symptoms of colon cancer can be a good way to avoid the fatality of the disease through earlier treatment.

It is not easy to discover if one has colon cancer. This is why doctors advice people over 50 years old to undergo colonoscopy. Even if the results show negative signs for cancer, recurrent examinations every after ten years is also recommended. But if the findings yield a possibility for cancer – even if the chance is small – the patient should submit to colonoscopy every two years.

An early symptom of colon cancer that is often overlooked is excess gas. If you feel bloated and your stomach literally hardens after eating, then this may be a sign of a tumor growing within your system and blocking the path of the waste materials in your body. You may also suffer constipation due to the blockage and this will eventually lead to constant stomach or abdominal pains. Diarrhea and dehydration can also occur due to changes in bowel habits. If your bowel habits remain abnormal for more than two weeks, then this could already be an indication of colon cancer. These pains can be accompanied by swelling. Continue reading ‘Initial Symptoms of Colon Cancer’ »