Colon cancer is also commonly referred to as colorectal cancer as it the cancer for both the colon and the rectum are very similar.  The beginning stages of colon cancer are usually in the form of a polyp which in itself is not cancerous but certain kinds are known to turn cancerous (also known as pre-cancerous polyps).  The amount of time it can take for a polyp to become cancerous is slowly – usually over the course of years.  

If colon cancer starts to form in a polyp that is found in the colon or rectum it has the ability to metastasize through other the colon wall, blood vessels, or other parts of the body.  There are other types of colon cancers that are diagnosed as well (in addition to the one just described known as Aden carcinomas).

Other types of colon cancers:

• Carcinoid Tumors – develop from cells in the intestine
• Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors – develop from the wall of the colon
• Lymphomas – can develop in lymph nodes as well as the colon or rectum

If you have noticed any change in the function of your bowels or the presence of blood you should consult with your doctor right away.  With careful screening for polyps, many cases of colon cancer can be prevented or treated in an early stage of the disease.  With the screening available now, the number of people being diagnosed and dying is receding.  Colon cancer is the second most common type of cancer that people die from.

To lower your risk of developing colon cancer, ensure your diet is full of fiber-rich foods.  You should eat the minimum serving of fresh fruit and vegetables each day and choose whole grains whenever possible.  A healthy diet coupled with routine physical activity and exercise are the best defense against colon cancer.

Latest Article: American Cancer Society

The American Cancer Society was formed in 1913 by a team of 15 doctors and has grown, evolved, and helped countless people that have been diagnosed with cancer to the society we know today.  The American Cancer Society is the place that you should go to for any and all information on cancer.  They have a call center – the National Cancer Information Center - that is...

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