Diseases
colon cancer
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Colon cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the large intestine (colon). The colon is the final part of the digestive tract. Colon cancer typically affects older adults, though it can happen at any age.
Symptoms
- rectal bleeding or blood in your stool
- a persistent change in your bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation or
- persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas or pain
- a change in the consistency of your stool
- a feeling that your bowel doesn't empty completely
Causes
- in general, colon cancer begins when healthy cells in the colon develop changes (mutations) in their dna. a cell's dna contains a set of instructions that tell a cell what to do.
Risk factors
- older age.
- low-fiber, high-fat diet, and obesity.
- a personal history of colorectal cancer or polyps.
Diagnosis
- blood tests.
- using a scope to examine the inside of your colon (colonoscopy).
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is colon cancer?
Colon cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the large intestine (colon). The colon is the final part of the digestive tract. Colon cancer typically affects older adults, though it can happen at any age.
What are the symptoms of colon cancer?
rectal bleeding or blood in your stool, a persistent change in your bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation or, persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas or pain, a change in the consistency of your stool, a feeling that your bowel doesn't empty completely
What causes colon cancer?
in general, colon cancer begins when healthy cells in the colon develop changes (mutations) in their dna. a cell's dna contains a set of instructions that tell a cell what to do.
Which medicines are used for colon cancer?
fluorouracil
Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app
Open the complete reference, check multi-drug interactions and use dosing tools in the MediHelp app.