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Top Colon Cancer Questions

by Donna Myers
for About.com

Updated October 17, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

If you're unfamiliar with colon cancer, this is a great place to start. As you read the answers to common questions, you'll have an opportunity to explore specific topics in more detail.

1. What is colon cancer?

Here, you'll learn what colon cancer is and find answers to other frequently-asked questions. Examples include what colon cancer is, other names for it, and what it looks like.

2. Where are the colon and rectum? What do they do, exactly?

This tour of the large intestine will show you where the colon and rectum are, and explain what they do.

3. What causes colon cancer?

You'll learn about many of the risk factors for colon cancer development. Examples include age, alcohol use, diet, environment, ethnicity, genetics, and smoking.

4. How can I prevent colon cancer?

Colon cancer is one of the most common, and yet preventable, cancers. This article will provide you with colon cancer prevention tips to help protect yourself and your loved ones from the disease.

5. What are the symptoms of colon cancer?

Colon cancer doesn't tend to have symptoms in its early stages. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned in this article, please make an appointment with your doctor right away.

6. Does Medicare cover colon cancer screening?

Medicare benefits cover a variety of colon cancer screening tests, including sigmoidoscopies, colonoscopies, barium enemas, and stool testing.

7. What are the different types of colon cancer?

Colon cancer comes in many forms, including adenocarcinoma, sarcoma, melanoma, carcinoid, and lymphoma. Here, you'll learn more about each.

8. What kinds of treatment are available for colon cancer?

Three standard colon cancer treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Learn more about each.
Explore Colon Cancer
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