COLON CANCER
Colon cancer is a type of cancer that begins
in the large intestine (colon). The colon is
the final part of the digestive tract
. likely vary, depending on the cancer's size
Colon cancer typically affects older adults,
though it can happen at any age. It usually
begins as small, noncancerous (benign)
clumps of cells called polyps that form on
the inside of the colon. Over time some of
these polyps can become colon cancers
Signs and symptoms
 A persistent change in your
bowel habits, including
diarrhea or constipation or a
change in the consistency of
your stool
 Rectal bleeding or blood in
your stool
 Persistent abdominal
discomfort, such as cramps,
gas or pain
 A feeling that your bowel
doesn't empty completely
 Weakness or fatigue
 Unexplained weight loss
Many people with colon cancer experience
no symptoms in the early stages of the
disease. When symptoms appear, they'll
and location in your large intestine.
Risk factors
 Older age.
 African-American race.
 A personal history of
colorectal cancer or polyps.
 Inflammatory intestinal
conditions.
 Inherited syndromes that
increase colon cancer risk.
 Family history of colon
cancer.
 Low-fiber, high-fat diet.
 A sedentary lifestyle.
 Diabetes.
 Obesity.
 Smoking.
 Alcohol.
 Radiation therapy for cancer.
Diagnosing colon cancer

 Using a scope to examine the

inside of your colon
(colonoscopy).
 Blood tests.

Treatment

Which treatments are most likely to help

you depends on your particular situation,
including the location of your cancer, its
stage and your other health concerns.
Treatment for colon cancer usually involves
surgery to remove the cancer. Other
treatments, such as radiation therapy and
chemotherapy, might also be
recommended.

Nursing Consideration

 Administer chemotherapy agents as

ordered, provide care for the client
receiving chemotherapy.
 Provide care for the client receiving
radiation therapy.
 Provide care for the client with bowel
surgery