Colon Cancer: Recognizing the Signs

About this course

Colon cancer is an abnormal, unregulated growth within the lining of the colon or rectum, both parts of the large intestine. The colon is the longest part of the large intestine and is divided into four sections: the ascending colon, the transverse colon, the descending colon, and the sigmoid colon. The innermost layer of the colon, the mucosa, is lined with a single cell layer of epithelial cells. A genetic mutation in these cells can result in a polyp, which can become cancerous, leading to the development of colon cancer. This course provides an overview of colon cancer, its characteristics, risk factors, preventative testing, early signs and symptoms, and treatment options

Learning objectives

• Describe the large intestine and how abnormalities can lead to colon cancer.
• Summarize the various types of colon cancer and their treatment options.
• Identify common risk factors, early signs, and symptoms of colon cancer.
• Review the stages of colon cancer.
• Summarize preventative testing to reduce the risk of colon cancer.

Course outline

13 sections · finish in any order across devices

1. 1

   Introduction

   Colon cancer is a slow-growing malignancy that originates in the lining of the colon or the rectum and is indicated by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells.1 Colon cancer is a type of colorectal cancer that is grouped with rectal cancer because of its numerous similarities in presentation, char

   4 min

2. 2

   Defining Colon Cancer

   Colon cancer is an abnormal, unregulated growth within the lining of the colon or rectum, both parts of the large intestine. The colon is the longest part of the large intestine, averaging between 61 – 65 inches in adults, and is divided into four sections: the ascending colon, the transverse colon,

   4 min

3. 3

   Age and Sex

   Age is one of the most noteworthy risk factors associated with colon cancer. Most cases occur in individuals over 50, with the median age at diagnosis being 66.2 While younger people can develop colon cancer, it is more likely later in life as cell damage builds up, increasing the chances of mutatio

   4 min

4. 4

   Race and Ethnicity

   Certain racial and ethnic groups, such as Non-Hispanic Black and Non-Hispanic American Indian/Alaska Native, have a documented higher risk of colon cancer than other populations.2 The exact reason for this racial link is unknown, but it has been linked to polyps being located deeper in the colon, po

   4 min

5. 5

   Genetics, Medical, and Family History

   Certain genetic disorders, such as Lynch syndrome (hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer), significantly elevate the risk of colon cancer. Other disorders like familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) have a 100% lifetime risk of colorectal cancer if left untreated.10,11 It is estimated that 5% of

   4 min

6. 6

   Diet, Smoking, and Alcohol

   Research has shown that certain lifestyle choices, such as diet, smoking, and alcohol consumption, have a strong link to colon cancer. A diet rich in processed or red meats and low in dietary fiber and whole grains increases the risk of colon cancer.1 Smoking is well-known in increasing the risk of

   4 min

7. 7

   Stages of Colon Cancer

   Colon cancer is categorized into distinct stages based on the extent of tumor growth, local invasion, and potential metastasis using the Tumor, Node, Metastasis (TNM) Classification. This universally adopted methodology for cancer staging categorizes tumor extent using three parameters tumor (T), no

   4 min

8. 8

   Types of Colon Cancer

   There are several types of colon cancer. The most common type of colon cancer is adenocarcinoma. Other rarer types of colon cancer include squamous cell carcinoma, carcinoid tumors, anaplastic carcinoma, and lymphoma.1

   4 min

9. 9

   Signs and Symptoms of Colon Cancer

   Colon cancer manifests various clinical signs and symptoms stemming from the tumor's location, growth pattern, and potential local and systemic effects. Recognizing these indications is pivotal for early diagnosis, treatment planning, and patient care.1

   4 min

10. 10

    Treatment Options

    Treatment options and decisions are based on thoroughly evaluating the patient's overall health, disease characteristics, stage, and individual preferences. A personalized approach often involving a combination of treatments is often used to achieve the best possible outcomes for individuals with co

    4 min

11. 11

    Preventative Testing

    Given the curability of stage 1 colon cancer, preventive testing, also known as screening, plays a pivotal role in detecting precursor lesions, such as polyps before they progress to malignancy.1 Individuals at the highest risk are advised to undergo regular screening tests to reduce their chances o

    4 min

12. 12

    Nursing Considerations

    When caring for a patient with colon cancer, several considerations must be kept at the forefront by the team of multidisciplinary healthcare providers and social workers coordinating care, managing treatment, and facilitating patient and family education.1 For patients with positive screening resul

    4 min

13. 13

    Conclusion

    Colon cancer is a slow-growing disease that sees uncontrolled irregular cell growth within the lining of the colon and rectum. While it is highly curable in its earliest stages, it has no typical clinical manifestations. Colon cancer often exhibits non-specific signs that are either overlooked or mi

    4 min

This course satisfies

Requirement summaries come from our state requirement records. Always confirm details with your board before you renew.

References and resources

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