What is colon cancer?
Colon cancer, like any cancer, occurs when cells in a particular part of the body begin to grow out of control. Most colon cancers begin as a polyp, or growth of tissue into the center of the colon, which can be removed during outpatient surgical procedures. However, these noncancerous growths can become malignant and then break away and spread through the bloodstream or lymph system to other parts of the body.

What are the symptoms of colon cancer?
Cancer can develop in any of the five sections of the colon, which means there can be several different symptoms: bloody stools, constant diarrhea or constipation, as well as abdominal distention and pain.

What causes colon cancer?
While we don't know the exact cause, there are certain known risk factors like family history; personal history of colon cancer, polyps or inflammatory bowel disease; aging; a diet mainly from animal sources; lack of exercise; obesity; and smoking.

Can colon cancer be prevented?
Taking certain steps can help you reduce the risk. Diagnostic tools include getting a rectal exam by a physician, taking a fetal occult blood test, getting a sigmoidoscopy or a colonoscopy. It's also important to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grain foods and to limit the amount of red meats you eat. Even small amounts of exercise on a regular basis can be helpful.