Symptoms and Diagnosis
By Suzanne Dixon, MPH, RD, About.com Guide to Colon Cancer
Think you might have colon cancer? What are the symptoms and how is colon cancer diagnosed? And how can you decrease your chances of getting colon cancer? These articles provide detailed answers to those questions and others related to colon cancer symptoms and diagnosis.
Risk Factors
Most people have about a six percent chance of developing colon cancer at some point in their lives. Refusing to get screened is a widely recognized way to increase your risk of developing the disease, but scientists are always researching other possibilities, too. Reading these articles will give you a good idea of the risk factors for colon cancer.
Signs and Symptoms
A tumor can grow for years before you notice any signs or symptoms of colon cancer. But, knowing what to look out for can't hurt.
Colon Cancer Screening
Approximately 75% of people diagnosed with colon cancer are 50 or older and symptom-free. While adjusting lifestyle factors to reduce cancer risk is a great idea, the most effective way to prevent colon cancer is to follow the screening guidelines.
Diagnosis
A lot of questions and emotions accompany a colon cancer diagnosis. These resources will help you navigate the road ahead.
