Colon cancer begins in the inner lining of the large intestine (colon). It often starts as small, noncancerous growths called polyps. Over time, some polyps can turn cancerous and invade deeper layers of the colon wall. Early detection is key-at-home stool tests, blood marker screenings, and routine colonoscopies can identify abnormalities before symptoms develop.
Early colon cancer may not cause noticeable signs. As it progresses, watch for these common symptoms:
The exact cause of colon cancer isn't always clear, but several factors can raise your risk:
With a focus on patient-centered care and comprehensive colon cancer solutions, GastroDoxs in Katy provides expert diagnostics-from at-home test kits and blood screenings to advanced colonoscopies-and personalized treatment plans including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy. Ready for peace of mind? Book an appointment today and let our specialists guide you through every step of your colon health journey.
We've successfully treated more than 329 patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Most guidelines recommend starting routine colon cancer screening at age 45. If you have a family history of colon cancer or polyps, your doctor may advise beginning earlier.
At-home tests can be a helpful first step in screening, but they do not replace a colonoscopy. If an at-home test returns an abnormal result, you should follow up with a healthcare provider for a diagnostic colonoscopy.
Signs of colon cancer in stool may include bright red blood streaks, dark or tarry patches, or black specks. Any unusual changes in stool color or consistency warrant prompt evaluation.
Blood tests can detect tumor markers such as CEA (carcinoembryonic antigen), but they are not definitive for diagnosis. They are typically used alongside other screening methods like colonoscopy.
Colon cancer is classified from Stage I to Stage IV:
� Stage I: Cancer is confined to the inner lining of the colon.
� Stage II-III: Cancer has grown into or through the colon wall and may involve nearby lymph nodes.
� Stage IV: Cancer has spread (metastasized) to distant organs such as the liver or lungs.
Survival rates for Stage IV colon cancer vary based on factors like patient age, overall health, and response to treatment. Your oncologist can provide personalized statistics and prognosis details.
Colon spasms or cramping are not usually a direct sign of cancer. However, any new, severe, or persistent abdominal cramps should be evaluated by a gastroenterologist to rule out serious conditions.
Surveillance intervals typically range from every 3 to 5 years, depending on the number, size, and type of polyps removed. Your gastroenterologist will recommend the best follow-up schedule for you.
You can reduce your risk by eating a high-fiber diet rich in fruits and vegetables, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, and reducing red and processed meats.
While diet alone cannot cure colon cancer, proper nutrition supports your overall health, helps manage treatment side effects, and may improve outcomes when used alongside medical therapies.
