Cancer or tumor is a group of cells that divide and multiply rapidly without any control. Like the many organs of the body, the colorectum is also made of different types of cells. When these cells multiply and go out of control, colon cancer or colorectal cancer arises. Hence a tumor is formed as a result of the extra cells.

Colon is a part of the digestive system which stores the waste materials of the body which is connected to the rectum which forms the large intestine. The benign tumors that arise from the large intestine are often harmless and is not life threatening whereas the malignant tumors are dangerous and is life threatening.

What are the causes of colon cancer?

Ulcerative colitis and colon cancer

There is a strong relation between the ulcer and the formation of colon cancer. Ulcer causes a swelling in the inner lining of the colon and hence causes certain amounts of damage to the colon cells. When these cells try to self heal, cancer may be produce as a result of it.

Diet and colon cancer

The people who consume large amounts of fats are vulnerable to develop cancer cells. The exact mechanism of the formation of the cancer cells are still a mystery. However, it is widely accepted that the high fat metabolism leads to the formation of the cancer inducing agents called the carcinogens which are chemicals.

Genetics and colon cancer

Genetics play a vital role in the formation of the tumor. If a parent or both suffer from colon cancer, their offspring also has a high probability of developing colon cancer. Although the genetics has a big role, it is commonly observed that about 80 percent of the people with colon cancer do not have a background of colon cancer.

What are the symptoms of colon cancer?

There are many symptoms of colon cancer that may be non-specific. Most of the symptoms of the initial stage of the cancer may not be specific and can easily go undetected. The severe cancer can trigger some of the unpleasant symptoms.

Some of the more common symptoms are shortness of breath, fatigue, changes in the habits of bowel, narrow stools, abdominal pain and unexplained weight loss. Cancer can be very difficult to detect and the cancer may be present in the body for many years before they could produce any of the characteristic symptoms.

If you experience any sign of bowel discomfort and experience abdominal pain for a pro longed time, then it is wise to consult a doctor and seek medical advice. The doctor may suggest a number of tests to diagnose and confirm the exact cause for the discomfort.