Different Types of Colon Cancer
The different types of colon cancer affect the large intestine (also known as the colon), which is at the lower section of the digestive system. Since rectal cancer affects the last six inches of the large intestine, both cancers, colon and rectal, are often known collectively as colorectal cancer. However, colon cancer is the usual term used for the cancers of the large intestine. Almost all different types of colon cancer develop as noncancerous cells, which as known as adenomatous polyps. With time, these polyps might grow into colon cancers. If discovered quickly through screening tests, cancer may be avoided. Colon cancer symptoms and signs include changes in bowel movement, abdominal aches, bloody stool, cramps, and more. Among the different types of colon cancer, adenocarcinoma is the most common. It grows in the glands and its subtypes include signet ring cell adenocarcinoma and mucinous adenocarcinoma. Another type, leiomyosarcoma, develops in the smooth muscle. It is an uncommon type of colon cancer and is apt to metastasize. Lymphomas and melanomas are also rare—they usually spread to the colon from other parts of the body. Among the different types of colon cancer there are also neuroendocrine
tumors, which release hormones and can be indolent or aggressive. The disease is most common among males over the age of fifty. Research shows that
cancer risks include family history of the disease, diets low in fiber and high in fat, smoking, irregular bowel habits, lack of exercise, and daily alcohol consumption. Individuals who are prone to producing intestinal polyps are also more susceptible to developing the different types of colon cancer.
