At Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center, experts who specialize in treating colon cancer work together to achieve the best possible outcomes for patients diagnosed with this cancer. Our center provides individualized cancer care that is rooted in the latest diagnostic and treatment tools. Colon cancer is the fourth most common cancer in men and women, but it is a very treatable disease, particularly through surgery. Survival rates for colon cancer continue to increase, in large part thanks to advanced screening programs and treatments.
Colon cancer is cancer that develops in the tissues of the colon, which is part of the large intestine. Colon cancer often begins as non-cancerous growths (or polyps) that form on the inner lining of the colon. Over time, some polyps can become malignant (cancerous) when cells start growing abnormally, invading more of the colon and rectum.
The colon, the longest part of the large intestine, is part of the digestive system and removes water and some nutrients and electrolytes from partially-digested food. The remaining material, solid waste called stool, moves through the colon, is stored in the rectum, and leaves the body through the anus.
Colon cancer is one of the most preventable cancers thanks to screening. Several screening methods, such as the colonoscopy, make it possible to detect some colon cancers before symptoms appear. Colon cancer occurs equally among men and women, and it is a highly treatable, often curable disease.
Nearly all colon cancers are adenocarcinomas, which is a cancer that starts in the lining of internal organs. The tumors start in gland cells that release fluids. Other very rare types of colon cancer include gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), lymphomas, carcinoid tumors, small cell carcinomas and sarcomas. Given that the vast majority of colon cancers are adenocarcinomas, the information discussed— from associated risk factors to treatment options — is centered on this type of cancer. Learn more about colon cancer.
Colon cancer starts in the colon, while rectal cancer begins in the rectum. Though they affect different parts of the large intestine, these cancers are often grouped under the term “colorectal cancer.” This can be confusing, but it’s important to know that while they share many similarities, they also have distinct differences in how they develop and are treated.
Both colon and rectal cancer have similar symptoms, including bloody stools, constipation, bloating and abdominal pain. Similarly, both cancers also share many risk factors, such as being overweight, smoking, alcohol use, having a family history of the disease and having genetic mutations such as familial adenomatous polyposis. Additionally, Black people are also more likely to develop colorectal cancer than other races in the United States. The screening methods for both are the same, with tests like colonoscopies and stool-based exams helping to detect cancer early.
Colon cancer is more common than rectal cancer, but together, colorectal cancers are the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Because of this, early screening and detection are crucial for improving outcomes and saving lives.
Procrastinating that first colonoscopy? You’re not alone! This patient's candid account of a first-time screening shows that the process is far less dramatic than the myths suggest. Don’t let fear keep you from an important health check—this story might just change your mind.
At only 28 years old, Jaclyn Zajac was diagnosed with Stage Three colorectal cancer. After beginning treatment at Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center, colorectal surgeon Ronald Bleday, MD, discovered that Jaclyn didn’t have one, but dozens of polypoid masses in her colon. Her medical care team created an individualized treatment plan that would begin with chemotherapy.
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