Colon Cancer

Clinical trials

Clinical trial participants help move research forward while gaining access to the latest potential treatments.

'Paracetamol' photo by Henri Koskinen

About Colon Cancer

Colorectal cancer is cancer of the rectum or colon (the large intestine) in the lower section of the digestive system. One in 20 people will develop this type of cancer in their lifetime, with risk factors including family history, prior bowel diseases, being overweight or obese, smoking, heavy alcohol use, and others.

Symptoms of colorectal cancer include constipation, diarrhea, blood in the stool, unintended weight loss, and abdominal cramps, among others. Colorectal cancer is diagnosed through a colonoscopy, x-ray, or CT scan. If caught early enough, it’s treatable and can even be curable. Treatment includes surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or medication.