The colon is also called the large intestine.

The ascending colon travels up the right side of abdomen.

The transverse colon crosses the abdomen.

The descending colon travels over the left abdomen.

The sigmoid colon is a short bend of the colon just before the rectum.

The colon removes water, salt and some nutrients are formed stool. The muscles line the colon wall, squeezing its contents along. Billions of bacteria in the colon and the content layer, living in a healthy balance with the body.

Causes

According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in the United States. However, early diagnosis can lead to a complete cure.

Almost all colon cancers start in the glands of the mucosa of the colon and rectum. When most people and when doctors talk about colorectal cancer, this is usually what you mean.

There is no single cause for colon cancer. Almost all colon cancers start as noncancerous (benign) polyps, which slowly develop into cancer.

They have a higher risk of colon cancer if:

Symptoms

The colon and rectum can be displayed in several ways. If you have any of these symptoms, seek medical help immediately.You may notice bleeding from the rectum or blood mixed with feces.

People commonly attribute all rectal bleeding to hemorrhoids, thus preventing early diagnosis owing to the lack of concern over 'bleeding hemorrhoids.'Rectal bleeding can be hidden and chronic, and may manifest as iron deficiency anemia.

It may be associated with fatigue and pale skin.

Usually but not always, can be detected through a fecal occult (hidden) blood in the stool samples were submitted to a laboratory for blood.

Treatment

First, the colon cancer symptoms vary widely. They range from a pain in the stomach to the inability to use the bathroom. However, one of the main things to keep in mind is, of course, blood in the stool. When there is blood in the stool, which is never a good sign.

There is always a good chance that the blood came from the anus, and if that's the case, then more than likely have a cut or tear in the anus. This is something that should heal with time, just be careful when cleaning after using the bathroom. It could also have come from a hemorrhoid. Often, bleeding hemorrhoids, and there is much you can do about it unless they are removed.

Remember that hemorrhoids are not a threat to health, but can become annoying. However, if you have mixed blood in the stool, then you might have a different kind of problem. Make sure you go see your doctor and take it to him so he can take a look.