Navigation
[TITLE]

[MESSAGE]

[BUTTONS]

Popular questions...

Content

How is bowel (colon) cancer diagnosed?

Bowel cancer is diagnosed using procedures such as a colonoscopy or laparoscopy, as well as scans such as computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is bowel cancer?

Bowel cancer, also known as colon, rectal or colorectal cancer, occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the intestines and/or the rectum. It is a major cause of preventable death in adult Australians.

What causes bowel (colon) cancer?

The cause of bowel cancer, as with other cancers, is due to damage to cellular DNA. This damage results in uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells, which leads to formation of a tumor. In bowel cancer, the tumor commonly starts as a benign lesion (i.e., it …

What are the symptoms of bowel (colon) cancer?

In the early stages colon cancer has no symptoms. As the cancer progresses, blood or mucus can be present in the feces and you may experience abdominal discomfort, constipation, diarrhea, weakness and fatigue.

How is bowel (colon) cancer treated?

Surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and in some cases hormone therapy are used to treat bowel cancer.

Can bowel (colon) cancer be prevented?

Bowel cancer can be prevented by detecting and treating any polyps (benign tumors) found during a colonoscopy. Ways to reduce the risk of bowel cancer include eating a healthy diet high in fruit and vegetables and low in processed meat; maintaining a …

If I have inflammatory bowel disease, am I at greater risk of getting bowel (colon) cancer?

If you have inflammatory bowel disease, the prolonged inflammation of the colon puts you at increased risk of developing bowel (colon) cancer.

If there is blood in my stool do I have bowel (colon) cancer?

Blood in the stool is a common symptom of bowel (colon) cancer, but it can also be caused by many other conditions. However, if you find blood in your stool, it is important to have it properly assessed by your doctor.

What increases the chances of developing bowel (colon) cancer?

Inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, smoking and alcohol all increase your chances of developing bowel (colon) cancer, as does having a family history of it, or some rare genetic diseases.

What is colon cancer?

Colon cancer, also known as bowel, rectal or colorectal cancer, occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the intestines and/or the rectum. It is a major cause of preventable death in adult Australians.

What is colorectal cancer?

Colorectal cancer, also known as colon, rectal or bowel cancer, occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the intestines and/or the rectum. It is a major cause of preventable death in adult Australians.

Related topics

Diseases & conditions

Rectal bleeding (blood in stools)

Rectal bleeding is usually due to small anal tears or haemorrhoids, but can also be caused by a bowel condition. Rectal bleeding can be a symptom of colon cancer, so it needs to be investigated by a doctor. It is very common, so do not be embarrassed about discussing it with your doctor.…
Diseases & conditions

Esophageal cancer

Oesophageal cancer is the name for cancers that arise in the tissues of the oesophagus, the tube that connects the throat to the stomach. Abnormal cells can form a tumour, leading to problems with swallowing food, and can spread through the body.…
Diseases & conditions

Pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer is the name for cancers that appear in the pancreas, an organ near the stomach that plays an important role in digestion. Pancreatic cancer can interfere with how the pancreas functions and can spread throughout the body.…
Diseases & conditions

Crohn’s disease

Crohn's disease is an inflammatory bowel condition that mainly affects the intestines. The main symptoms include diarrhoea, abdominal cramping and tiredness. Although there is no known cure, Crohn’s disease can be managed with medications, dietary measures and, in some cases, surgery.…
Diseases & conditions

Gallstones

Gallstones are usually small stones formed in your gallbladder, which is an organ that stores bile to help digest food. They can cause problems if they get stuck at the opening of the gallbladder or pass beyond.…
Diseases & conditions

Lung cancer

Lung cancer is the name for cancers that arise in lung tissue. Abnormal cells can interfere with lung function and spread to other parts of the body. Smoking is a major risk factor, although non-smokers can also develop lung cancer.…

About this article

Author: Karen McCloskey BHSc
First answered: 23 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.3 out of 5
Votes: 364 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Rectal bleeding (blood in stools)

×

Content goes in here.