Colon Cancer Signs and Symptoms

This post was written with Consensus AI Academic Search Engine – please read our Disclaimer at the end of this article. Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer (CRC), is a significant health concern worldwide. Early detection and awareness of its signs and symptoms are crucial for effective treatment and improved survival rates. This article aims to provide an overview of the common signs and symptoms associated with colon cancer, based on recent research findings.

Common Signs and Symptoms

Change in Bowel Habits

One of the most frequently reported symptoms of colon cancer is a change in bowel habits. This can include diarrhea, constipation, or a change in the consistency of the stool. A study involving 7380 patients found that a change in bowel habit (CIBH) was the most frequently presenting symptom, reported by 73% of the patients1.

Rectal Bleeding

Rectal bleeding is another common symptom of colon cancer. It can manifest as blood in the stool or on the toilet paper after a bowel movement. In the same study, 38% of the patients reported rectal bleeding as a symptom1. Awareness of this symptom is crucial, as it can prompt individuals to seek medical attention earlier.

Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain is also a significant symptom associated with colon cancer. It can range from mild discomfort to severe pain. The study mentioned above reported that 29% of the patients experienced abdominal pain1. This symptom, combined with others, can be indicative of CRC and should not be ignored.

Anemia

Anemia, characterized by a low red blood cell count, can be a sign of colon cancer, particularly if it is unexplained. The same study found that 26% of the patients had anemia at the time of presentation1. Anemia can cause symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath, which can further impact the patient’s quality of life.

Lump in the Abdomen

A lump in the abdomen can also be a sign of colon cancer. However, awareness of this symptom is relatively low. A population survey revealed that only 64% of respondents were aware that a lump in the abdomen could be a sign of CRC2. This highlights the need for increased public education on the various symptoms of colon cancer.

Tiredness and Fatigue

Tiredness and fatigue are common symptoms in cancer patients, including those with colon cancer. The same population survey found that only 50% of respondents were aware that tiredness could be a sign of CRC2. Fatigue can significantly affect a patient’s daily life and overall well-being.

Conclusion

Awareness of the signs and symptoms of colon cancer is essential for early detection and treatment. Common symptoms include a change in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, anemia, a lump in the abdomen, and fatigue. Public education efforts should focus on increasing awareness of these symptoms to encourage timely medical consultations and improve outcomes for individuals with colon cancer.

Disclaimer

The content presented in this blog is generated by Consensus, an AI-powered academic search engine, and is based on publicly available scientific literature. While every effort is made to provide accurate, up-to-date, and well-researched information, the content is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding medical conditions, treatments, or medications. The AI system’s analysis may not cover all perspectives, emerging research, or individual cases, and it is not a substitute for professional expertise. Neither the blog publisher nor the developers of the AI-powered search engine are responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this content. Use of this information is at your own risk. Citations to the original scientific studies are included for reference, but these studies should be reviewed in full and interpreted with the guidance of a healthcare or research professional.

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