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Colon Cancer

Colon Cancer - cancer that forms in the tissues of the colon. Colon is a part of the digestive system and is the longest part of the large intestine. Adenocarcinoma is the most common type of colon cancer. This cancer forms in the cells that make and release mucus and other fluids.

Cancer that forms in the tissues of the colon (the longest part of the large intestine). Most colon cancers are adenocarcinomas (cancers that begin in cells that make and release mucus and other fluids). 

The digestive system removes and processes nutrients (vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and water) from foods and helps pass waste material out of the body. The digestive system is made up of the esophagus, stomach, and the small and large intestines. The first 6 feet of the large intestine are called the large bowel or colon. The last 6 inches are the rectum and the anal canal. The anal canal ends at the anus (the opening of the large intestine to the outside of the body).


What increases the risk to develop colon cancer?

· Age 50 or older.
· Personal or family history of colon or rectum cancer.
· History of polyps in the colon.
· Certain hereditary conditions (familial adenomatous polyposis).
· History of ulcers in the lining of the large intestine. 


How to detect and diagnose colon cancer?

Physical exam – exam of the body to check for signs of lumps or other things that may seem unusual.

Fecal occult blood test – stool (waste) is checked for blood using a microscope.

Digital rectal exam – exam of the rectum where a doctor inserts a gloved finger to feel for lumps or anything that may seem unusual.

Sigmoidoscopy – a procedure that looks into the rectum and lower colon for polyps and/or unusual areas, through insertion of a thin, tube-like instrument.

Colonoscopy – a procedure that look into the rectum and colon for polyps and/or unusual areas, through insertion of a thin, tube-like instrument.

Biopsy – removal of cells or tissues to be checked under the microscope.

Barium enema – x-rays of the lower gastrointestinal tract. A liquid with a special compound (barium) is put into the rectum to coat the tract and enable x-rays to be taken.
 

Treatment for colon cancer

Colon cancer’s treatment options depend on the size and stage of the cancer. Patient’s general health also plays a vital role in the treatment options.
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 What is Cancer    Glossary of Cancer/Treatment Terms    Types of scans to detect cancer

Common Types of Cancer*

 
Bladder Cancer    Breast Cancer    Colon Cancer   Kidney (Renal Cell) Cancer    Leukemia (adult)    Leukemia (child)

Lung Cancer    Melanoma    Pancreatic Cancer    Prostate Cancer     Skin Cancer (Nonmelanoma)    Thyroid Cancer  

* Common Types of Cancer - cancers diagnosed with greatest frequency in the United States
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