Colon or colorectal cancer can affect either the colon or rectum situated in the digestive tract. While the exact causes are unknown, and genetic risk factors cannot be controlled, certain other lifestyle-related factors that elevate the risk of this form of cancer can be managed. Also, the disease may manifest mild to no symptoms in some cases, so it’s best to rely on a doctor’s advice. Let’s take a look at the causes and symptoms of colon cancer.

Causes of colon cancer
With unknown exact causes, one should keep an eye out for the following risk factors of colon cancer:

• Age : This form of cancer mostly affects people above the age of 50, but young adults can also develop it.
• Family history : Patients who have a history of adenomatous polyps in the colon are at a greater risk of developing this disease. It’s best to get screened from time to time.
• Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) : IBD may lead to colon cancer if left untreated because it develops into dysplasia, which can develop into cancer over time.
• Genes : Certain patients have an inherited gene or develop gene mutations that cause colon cancer. Other inherited conditions like Lynch syndrome, familial adenomatous polyposis, Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome (PJS), or MYH-Associated Polyposis (MAP) also put one at high risk.
• Other factors : People who are overweight or obese, physically inactive, have diabetes, smoke daily, or consume a lot of alcohol may be susceptible to colon cancer.

Symptoms of colon cancer

• Persistent abdominal pain : If one is experiencing pain in their abdomen, bloating, cramps, or discomfort that is unfamiliar and prolonged, it’s best to consult a doctor. These symptoms may or may not be caused by a serious condition.
• Sudden weight loss : If dietary or lifestyle changes are not the cause of weight loss, unexplained weight loss may be a symptom of colon cancer. Weight loss is usually accompanied by other symptoms mentioned in this article, and it should not be taken as the sole determining factor.
• Bloody stool : Blood in stool is a serious concern and should not be ignored. It could occur due to hemorrhoids or could be a symptom of cancer. Bloody stool, in this case, is usually accompanied by pain.
• Unusual bowel movement : Recurring or prolonged diarrhea or constipation may be a cause for concern. If the stool looks narrow or pencil-thin, one should approach a doctor for a proper screening and further diagnosis.
• Unexplained anemia : This occurs when there is a serious reduction in the red blood cell count. In the case of colon cancer, anemia may be caused due to a significant amount of blood loss through stool.
• Nausea and vomiting : Nausea may happen due to several reasons, but if nausea is accompanied by consistent vomiting, it may be a symptom of colon cancer. Vomiting may also happen due to tumor development that obstructs bowel movement.