Colon cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States. It occurs when a malignant tumor forms in the large intestine. The disease is most common among people over the age of 40.
Anyone with a family history of colon cancer, or who has had colon polyps (benign tumors) or inflammatory bowel disease is considered to be at high risk. People who have been heavily exposed to asbestos are also at high risk.
Diet appears to contribute to the risk, as well. Research suggests that people who eat a lot of animal fat and don’t eat enough fiber are more likely to develop colon cancer than those with a low-fat, high-fiber diet. Obesity appears to be casually related to colon cancer.
If you are diagnosed with colon cancer, surgery, radiation or chemotherapy may cure or help control it. For people whose colon cancer is caught early, chances for a full recovery are good.
