Description: Colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer, is cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. These are the last parts of your digestive system. In most cases, it starts from polyps, which are abnormal growths on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. Most polyps are benign (not cancerous), but some can turn into cancer over time. 

Signs and Symptoms: 

• Blood in the stool (bright red or dark red) 
• Change in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of stools) 
• Rectal bleeding 
• Cramping or pain in the abdomen 
• Weakness or fatigue 
• Unexplained weight loss 

Diagnosis: 

• Stool test: Checks for hidden blood in the stool 
• Colonoscopy: A long, flexible tube with a light and camera is inserted into the rectum to examine the inside of the colon 
• Sigmoidoscopy: Similar to a colonoscopy, but examines only the lower part of the colon and rectum 
• CT scan: Creates detailed cross-sectional images of the abdomen and pelvis 
• Biopsy: Removing a small tissue sample for examination under a microscope 

Treatment Options: 

• Surgery: To remove the tumor and surrounding tissue 
• Radiation therapy: Uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells 
• Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body 
• Targeted therapy: Drugs that target specific weaknesses in cancer cells