Colon Cancer
Tips Menu | Colon Cancer | Prevention | Screening
Cancer is not one disease, but a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. It is usually classified by the organ in which it appears. There are more than 100 different types of cancer.
Healthy cells that make up the body's tissues grow and divide in a balanced manner. This process keeps the body in good repair. Sometimes, however, normal cells lose the ability to limit and direct their growth. They either divide too and/or gain immortality, thus growing out of control. Too much tissue is produced and tumors begin to form. Tumors can be benign (not cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). By histopathological definition, malignant tumors invade and destroy nearby tissues and organs. Cancer cells can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body and form new tumors. Because cancer can spread, it is important for the doctor to conduct screening tests to find out as early as possible if a tumor is present and if it is cancerous.
Cancer of the colon or rectum is often called colorectal cancer. The colon and rectum are part of the large or lower intestine, which is part of the digestive system.
The Digestive System
Tumors that grow in the colon or rectum may be precancerous growths of tissue (polyps) or may be cancerous growths that could spread to other parts of the body. The only way to know if you have a polyp or cancer is by seeing your physician to have colorectal screening tests.
However, there are some warning signs for colorectal cancer that you should be aware of. See your physician if you experience any of the following symptoms:
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A change in bowel habits such as diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool that lasts for more than a few days;
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A feeling that you need to have a bowel movement that is not relieved by doing so;
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Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool;
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Cramping or steady abdominal (stomach area) pain;
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Decreased appetite;
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Weakness and fatigue;
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Jaundice (yellow-green discoloration of the skin and white part of the eyes).
These symptoms do not guarantee a diagnosis of cancer. They may indicate other problems, such as diseases of the stomach, gallbladder or pancreas, or hemorrhoids. These symptoms are signs that your body is giving you to indicate that something is wrong. The earlier a cause is found, the better the outcome.
Tips Menu | Colon Cancer | Prevention | Screening
If you would like more information about the Arizona Cancer Center, please contact our COPE Line at 1-520-626-6044 or send E-mail to copeline@azcc.arizona.edu.
