Colon cancer: Cancer that forms in the tissues of the colon (the longest part of the large intestine). Most colon cancers are adenocarcinomas (cancers that begin in cells that make and release mucus and other fluids).

• Colon cancer is a malignant tumor arising from the inner wall of the large intestine.
• Colon cancer is the third leading cause of cancer in males and fourth in females in the U.S.
• Risk factors for colon cancer include heredity, colon polyps, and long-standing ulcerative colitis.
• Most colorectal cancers develop from polyps. Removal of colon polyps can prevent colorectal cancer.
• Colon polyps and early cancer can have no symptoms. Therefore regular screening is important.
• Diagnosis of colon cancer can be made by barium enema or by colonoscopy with biopsy confirmation of cancer tissue.
• Treatment of colon cancer depends on the location, size, and extent of cancer spread, as well as the age and health of the patient.
• Surgery is the most common treatment for colon cancer.

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