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Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the colon or rectum, which are parts of the digestive system. It is one of the more common cancers, but finding it early can make treatment easier and improve the chances of recovery.

Colorectal cancer does not always cause symptoms in its early stages. This is why screening is important, especially for people who are at increased risk.

Understanding the warning signs and available screening options can help people take action when needed.

What Is Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer develops when abnormal cells in the colon or rectum begin to grow uncontrollably. It may start as a small growth called a polyp.

Many polyps are not cancerous. However, some types can slowly develop into cancer over time. Screening can sometimes find these polyps so they can be removed before cancer develops.

If colorectal cancer is not detected and treated, it can grow into nearby tissues or spread to other parts of the body.

What Are the Warning Signs of Colorectal Cancer?

Early colorectal cancer may not cause any symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they can vary from person to person.

Possible warning signs include:

• Blood in or on the stool

• Changes in bowel habits

• Diarrhea or constipation that continues

• Narrower-than-usual stools

• A feeling that the bowel has not completely emptied

• Frequent abdominal discomfort or cramps

• Unexplained weight loss

• Persistent tiredness or weakness

Blood in the stool does not always mean cancer. Hemorrhoids and other digestive problems can also cause bleeding. However, unexplained bleeding should be checked by a healthcare professional.

Can Changes in Bowel Habits Be a Warning Sign?

Yes. A lasting change in bowel habits can sometimes be a sign of colorectal cancer.

For example, you may notice constipation or diarrhea that does not go away or a change in how often you have bowel movements.

These changes can have many other causes, including diet, infections, medications, and digestive conditions. Still, persistent changes should be discussed with a doctor.

Who Is at Risk of Colorectal Cancer?

Anyone can develop colorectal cancer, but certain factors can increase the risk.

These include:

• Increasing age

• A family history of colorectal cancer

• A personal history of certain polyps

• Certain inherited conditions

• Inflammatory bowel diseases

• Smoking

• Heavy alcohol use

• Being overweight

• Lack of physical activity

• A diet high in processed or red meat

Having a risk factor does not mean that someone will develop cancer. It simply means that screening and preventive care may be especially important.

Why Is Colorectal Cancer Screening Important?

Screening helps find colorectal cancer before symptoms appear. Some screening tests can also find polyps that can be removed before they become cancerous.

This makes colorectal cancer screening different from many other types of cancer screening because it may help with both early detection and prevention.

The appropriate screening schedule depends on factors such as age, family history, personal health history, and the screening method used.

What Are the Main Colorectal Cancer Screening Options?

Several screening methods are available.

Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy allows a healthcare professional to examine the entire colon and rectum using a flexible camera.

If polyps are found, they can often be removed during the same procedure. Tissue can also be collected for testing when necessary.

Colonoscopy is widely used because it can both detect and remove certain precancerous growths.

Stool Tests

Some screening tests look for signs of cancer in stool.

A fecal immunochemical test (FIT) looks for small amounts of blood that may not be visible. Another option, stool DNA testing, checks for certain DNA changes and blood associated with colorectal cancer.

These tests are done at home in many cases. If a stool test produces an abnormal result, a colonoscopy may be needed.

Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

This test uses a flexible instrument to examine the lower part of the colon and rectum.

It can identify abnormal tissue and polyps in the area examined. Depending on the findings and screening plan, further testing may be recommended.

When Should You Start Screening?

Screening recommendations can vary depending on the country and a person's individual risk.

For people at average risk, screening often begins in adulthood, while people with a strong family history or certain medical conditions may need to start earlier.

Talk with a healthcare professional about when screening should begin and which test is most appropriate for you.

Can Colorectal Cancer Be Prevented?

Not every case can be prevented, but several healthy habits may help lower the risk.

You can support colorectal health by:

• Eating plenty of fiber-rich foods

• Eating more vegetables and fruits

• Limiting processed meat

• Limiting excessive alcohol

• Avoiding tobacco

• Staying physically active

• Maintaining a healthy weight

• Following recommended screening schedules

FAQs

What is the most common warning sign of colorectal cancer?

Possible warning signs include blood in the stool and persistent changes in bowel habits. However, some people have no symptoms in the early stages.

Can colorectal cancer be prevented?

Some cases can potentially be prevented through regular screening because certain precancerous polyps can be found and removed before they become cancer.

Is blood in the stool always a sign of colorectal cancer?

No. Hemorrhoids, digestive conditions, and other problems can cause blood in the stool. However, unexplained bleeding should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

What is the best test for colorectal cancer screening?

There is no single best test for everyone. Colonoscopy, stool tests, and other screening methods have different benefits. Your healthcare professional can help you choose based on your risk and preferences.

Can young adults get colorectal cancer?

Yes. Although risk generally increases with age, younger adults can also develop colorectal cancer. Persistent or unusual symptoms should not be ignored regardless of age.

Conclusion

Colorectal cancer affects the colon or rectum and may develop slowly from certain types of polyps. In its early stages, it may cause no symptoms, making regular screening an important part of prevention and early detection.