Colon Cancer | Colorectal Cancer

Colon cancer signs can vary

Symptoms of colon cancer can depend on the size of the tumor and its location in the lower GI tract.

Common signs are:

• Changes in bowel movements
• Blood in the stool (bright red or black)
• Vomiting
• Feeling tired or rundown
• Stomach discomfort

Diagnosing colon cancer

Doctors recommend that people 50 and older (younger if there is a family history) have regular colon cancer screenings. Screenings help prevent and detect colon cancer. Early detection is a patient’s best chance for successful treatment and recovery.

• Colonoscopy and FIT tests are the standard screening for colon cancer. During a colonoscopy, doctors look for signs of cancer and also remove any polyps that may have formed in a patient’s colon. Removing polyps, or small growths, before they turn into cancer is the best way to prevent colon cancer. A screening colonoscopy if negative is repeated every 10 years.

•  The FIT test requires the collection of a stool sample that is tested and this needs to be repeated annually.

• Other screenings for colon cancer can include flexible sigmoidoscopy, fecal occult blood test, fecal immunoassay (FIT test), double contrast barium enema, CT colonography (or virtual colonoscopy).

Colon cancer therapies can vary

Treatment for colon cancer varies depending on cancer stage and type. Complementary and integrative therapies, while not primary treatment options can be discussed with our providers. The size of the cancer and how far it has spread will affect treatment options. Common treatments include:

• Surgery

• Radiation

• Chemotherapy

• Targeted therapies

• Clinical trials