Colon cancer can sometimes develop without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, which is one reason the disease may not be detected until it has progressed, oncologist Ruslan Basanov told RIAMO.
According to the doctor, the most common type is adenocarcinoma, which develops from glandular cells. Less common forms also exist, some of which may behave more aggressively.
Early symptoms, when they occur, can be easy to overlook. They may include persistent constipation or diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, changes in bowel habits and blood in the stool. These symptoms can also have many non-cancerous causes, but persistent or unexplained changes should be medically evaluated.
As the disease progresses, additional warning signs may include unexplained weight loss, persistent fatigue and a frequent or continuing urge to have a bowel movement.
Colon cancer begins when abnormal cells in the lining of the colon grow uncontrollably. Over time, malignant cells can invade nearby tissues and potentially spread to other parts of the body.
Risk factors for colorectal cancer include increasing age, colorectal polyps, chronic inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, smoking, certain dietary patterns and inherited genetic predisposition or family history.
Because colorectal cancer can be present before symptoms appear, screening is important. Screening recommendations vary by country and individual risk, and people with a family history or other significant risk factors may need to begin earlier than the general population.
Blood in the stool, persistent changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss or ongoing abdominal symptoms should not automatically be assumed to be cancer, but they are reasons to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate evaluation.
