Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide. In fact, it is the second most common cause of cancer deaths in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. However, the good news is that colon cancer can be treated successfully if detected early. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the symptoms of colon cancer so that you can seek medical attention immediately.

The early stages of colon cancer may not necessarily have any noticeable symptoms. However, as the cancer progresses, the following symptoms may occur:

1. Changes in bowel habits: You may experience changes in your bowel movements including diarrhea, constipation, or narrowed stools. You may also feel that you need to have a bowel movement more frequently, or you may feel that you are not able to completely empty your bowels.

2. Blood in the stool: Blood in the stool is one of the most common symptoms of colon cancer. This may appear as bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl. In some cases, the stool may appear black and tar-like, which is an indication of old blood in the stool.

3. Abdominal discomfort: You may experience persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas, bloating, or pain. You may also feel a lump or mass in your abdomen.

4. Unexplained weight loss: You may experience unexplained weight loss without any changes in your diet or exercise routine. This may be due to the cancer cells consuming the energy that your body needs to maintain its weight.

5. Fatigue: You may feel unusually tired or weak even if you have not done anything tiring. This may be due to the cancer cells consuming the energy that your body needs to maintain its energy levels.

These symptoms may indicate colon cancer, but they can also be caused by other conditions. Therefore, it is important to consult your doctor or a specialist if you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above.

In addition to the above symptoms, there are also some risk factors that increase your chances of developing colon cancer. These include:

1. Age: Colon cancer is more common in people over the age of 50.

2. Lifestyle factors: Certain lifestyle factors such as a diet high in red and processed meats, obesity, inactivity, and smoking can increase your risk of colon cancer.

3. Family history: If you have a family history of colon cancer, your risk of developing the disease is higher.

4. Genetics: Certain genetic mutations such as Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) can also increase your risk of colon cancer.

5. Medical conditions: Medical conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis can increase your risk of colon cancer.

In summary, it is important to be aware of the symptoms of colon cancer and to consult your doctor if you experience any of them. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve your chances of successful treatment and recovery. Additionally, taking steps to reduce your risk factors, such as adopting a healthy lifestyle and getting regular screenings, can help prevent the development of colon cancer.

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