Colon cancer is a major cause for concern as it is the third most common cancer worldwide and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Recognizing symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, and abdominal pain can be life-saving. Regular screenings and healthy lifestyle choices can significantly reduce the risk. Early diagnosis is crucial for improving patient outcomes and quality of life, but the subtle symptoms of the disease are often overlooked or mistaken for less serious conditions. Identifying the early warning signs of colon cancer can be a lifesaving step. Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, begins in the colon (large intestine) or rectum, parts of the digestive system. It typically starts as small, benign clusters of cells called polyps that can evolve into cancer over time. However, not all polyps become malignant, and those that do often grow quietly showing minimal symptoms until the disease progresses. Some factors that increase the risk of colon cancer include age, family history of colorectal cancer, personal history, alcohol consumption, smoking, lifestyle, and obesity. Early symptoms can be deceptively mild and are often mistaken for other illnesses. According to the CDC, men are more likely than women to develop and die from colorectal cancer. The American Cancer Society lists some symptoms as follows:

– A lasting change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of stool
– Feeling the need for a bowel movement that doesn’t bring relief with one
– Rectal bleeding with bright red blood
– Blood in the stool that may appear dark brown or black
– Cramps or abdominal (belly) pain
– Weakness and fatigue
– Unexplained weight lossScreening can aid in early diagnosis. The CDC points out that precancerous polyps can be found through colorectal cancer screening and removed before developing into cancer, thus preventing colorectal cancer. Screening can also detect colorectal cancer early when treatment works best. The institution also suggests that some lifestyle changes could reduce the risk of developing colon cancer, such as increasing physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, following a diet low in animal fats and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and limiting alcohol consumption. If diagnosed with colon cancer, treatment depends on the size and extent of the disease. Treatment may involve surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy.