Colon cancer is one of the most common forms of abdominal cancer, affecting both men and women, but men are the most affected. Individuals at risk are requested to undertake a yearly screening for better diagnosis. This type of cancer affects the colon, a part of the large intestine, and is reported as polyps or benign tumors. Colon cancer also stretches from the colon region to the rectal region, which is known as colorectal cancer.

The treatments and risk factors for colon cancer depend on the progression of the condition. Once diagnosed, one should be aware of the lifestyle habits that aggravate the risk factors for colon cancer. They should be ready to adopt the necessary changes.

1. Symptoms of colon cancer
The symptoms of colon cancer vary from person to person. However, the most common one are:

• The large intestine is mostly responsible for water reabsorption and the concentration of waste products. Hence, the most common symptom noticed is improper bowel movements. One may either experience diarrhea or constipation.
• Recurring stomach ailments and improper digestion, leading to frequent acidity
• Abdominal cramps
• Blood observed in the stool
• Loss of appetite, leading to sudden loss in weight
• Persistent fatigue

2. Risk factors for colon cancer

• History of tumors or polyps in the colon or large intestine
  Any prior history of tumors or lesions in the colon can contribute to the risk factors for colon cancer. Sometimes, even a benign tumor can turn malignant if left untreated.
• Age
  Age is one of the risk factors for colon cancer. Most people reported to have this condition by the age of 50 years or above.
• Chronic intestinal disorder
  Several people with a history of Crohn’s disease have been diagnosed with cancer in the latter stages of life, making these chronic conditions one of the risk factors for colon cancer.
• Family history
  Several people with a family history of colon cancer have been diagnosed with the condition as well.
• Exaggerated smoking and alcohol consumption
  Addiction of any kind can lead to cancer. This aggravates the risk factors for colon cancer.
• Lack of physical activity
  Little to no physical activity is one of the risk factors for colon cancer. This can also be a risk for various types of cancer. As a result, people are advised to indulge in regular physical activities or exercises.

The risk factors for colon cancer also involve several lifestyle changes such as changes in diet, certain habits, addiction, etc. Even chronic conditions, such as diabetes, can lead to a faulty or an imbalanced body metabolism, making the body more prone to several kinds of cancer, including colon cancer.