Colon cancer is often detected in its late stages, when symptoms urge you to see your doctor. With a few life style changes and precautions you are able to prevent colon cancer or catch it early.

Colon cancer is caused by the uncontrolled growth of cells in the colon.  It may take years to develop, and at the early stage, there may only be an abnormal growth of tissues known as polyps.  However, these polyps can then develop into cancer if left untreated or not removed. 

In some cases, people with colon cancer have no abnormal symptoms, so they do not know that they have cancer. Also, there are other diseases with similar symptoms, which can confuse the issue.  However, it is important to seek medical attention when the following symptoms appear:
 

• Diarrhea, constipation or bloating
• Blood, bright red or very dark, in the stool
• Narrowing of stools
• Abdominal discomfort, burning sensation, bloating and clamping
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue or weakness
• Anemia