Colon Cancer in Women
Colon Cancer in Women: Prevention, Risk Factors & Symptoms
Colon cancer in women is one of the most preventable cancers, yet it remains a leading cause of death. The disease can go undetected without routine screenings, as many may not recognize the subtle early signs, and it can affect women of all ages and backgrounds.
Understanding your risk factors, recognizing symptoms, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help you stay ahead of the disease and take control of your well-being. Early detection can help save lives, and the more we know, the better equipped we are to protect ourselves.
Colon Cancer Explained
Colon cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the large intestine (colon), which is the final part of the digestive tract. It typically develops from benign growths called polyps that form on the colon’s inner lining.
Over time, some polyps may become cancerous, leading to tumor growth. The disease can spread to nearby lymph nodes and other organs if not detected early. Symptoms may not appear in the early stages, so routine screenings are essential for early diagnosis.
Colon cancer is the third most common cancer affecting women, but it is highly treatable when identified and addressed promptly.
Colon Cancer vs. Colorectal Cancer
Colon cancer refers specifically to cancer that develops in the large intestine, while colorectal cancer encompasses cancers of both the colon and the rectum. Rectal cancer occurs in the last few inches of the digestive tract, known as the rectum.
Both conditions share similar risk factors, symptoms, and treatments. Still, rectal cancer treatments often involve more localized approaches, including radiation therapy, due to the rectum’s proximity to other organs in the pelvis.
Understanding the Stages of Colon Cancer
Colon cancer is classified into five stages based on tumor growth and spread:
• Stage I: Cancer has grown into deeper layers of the colon but has not reached lymph nodes.
• Stage II: The tumor has spread through the colon wall but remains confined.
• Stage III: Cancer has reached nearby lymph nodes but not distant organs.
• Stage IV: The disease has metastasized to other organs, such as the liver or lungs.
The Importance of Early Detection
Early detection of colon cancer significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. When caught in its early stages, colon cancer has a high survival rate, often exceeding 91%.
Screening methods, such as colonoscopies, can identify and remove precancerous polyps before they become cancerous. Other tests, including stool-based screenings, help detect hidden blood or abnormal DNA.
Because symptoms often appear only in advanced stages, regular screenings are essential, especially for women over 45 or those with a family history of colon cancer.
Causes
Colon cancer develops when genetic mutations cause abnormal cell growth in the colon's lining. These mutations can be inherited or occur due to environmental and lifestyle factors. Over time, abnormal cells form polyps, some of which may become cancerous.
Chronic colon inflammation, such as in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), can increase the risk of abnormal cell changes. Additionally, DNA damage from oxidative stress or exposure to carcinogens may contribute to cancer development.
Risk Factors for Colon Cancer
Several factors can increase a woman’s risk of developing colon cancer. While some are genetic and unavoidable, others are linked to lifestyle choices that can be modified to reduce risk. The most common risk factors include:
• Age: Risk increases after 50, though cases are rising in younger adults.
• Family history: Having a close relative with colon cancer or inherited conditions such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) raises risk.
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Chronic conditions such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis increase risk.
• Unhealthy diet: A high intake of red and processed meats and low fiber consumption contribute to colon cancer.
• Obesity: Being overweight, especially with excess abdominal fat, increases the likelihood of colon cancer.
• Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of regular exercise is associated with higher risk.
• Smoking and alcohol consumption: Both habits contribute to DNA damage and increase cancer risk.
• Type 2 diabetes: Insulin resistance has been linked to a greater risk of colon cancer.
• Previous cancer history: Women who have had ovarian or endometrial cancer may have an increased risk.
How Herself Health Can Help
Herself Health is dedicated to empowering Minnesota women 65 and up to take charge of their health. Our comprehensive women's health services and whole-person approach ensure you receive personalized care tailored to address immediate and long-term health concerns.
Our team will work with you to identify risk factors, develop a prevention strategy, and provide the education and tools you need to support long-term well-being.
We are currently welcoming new patients at all our senior women's health clinics. To schedule your appointment, please call 1-888-290-1209 or fill out our Contact page, and we’ll call you to book your appointment.
Symptoms of Colon Cancer in Women
Colon cancer symptoms can be subtle in the early stages, often going unnoticed until the disease has progressed. However, as the cancer develops, common symptoms include:
• Changes in bowel habits: Persistent diarrhea, constipation, or narrow stools that last more than a few days.
• Blood in the stool: Bright red or dark tarry stools may indicate bleeding in the colon.
• Abdominal discomfort: Cramping, bloating, gas, or persistent pain that does not resolve.
• Unexplained weight loss: A sudden decrease in weight without changes in diet or exercise.
• Fatigue and weakness: Ongoing tiredness due to internal blood loss or the body’s inability to absorb nutrients properly.
• Iron deficiency anemia: More common in women, this can cause dizziness, shortness of breath, and pale skin.
• A feeling of incomplete bowel emptying: Persistent urgency to use the bathroom even after a bowel movement.
While the symptoms of colon cancer are primarily the same in men and women, women may be more likely to dismiss symptoms as menstrual-related or linked to other digestive issues like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Because symptoms may overlap with other conditions, women need to seek medical attention as soon as health changes are noticed.
When To See Your Doctor
Women should see a doctor if they experience persistent or unusual digestive symptoms that last more than a few weeks.
Signs that require medical attention include blood in the stool, which may appear bright red or dark and tarry, and ongoing changes in bowel habits such as diarrhea, constipation, or narrow stools.
Unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and weakness—especially when accompanied by pale skin or shortness of breath—could indicate anemia, a condition sometimes linked to colon cancer.
Persistent abdominal pain, cramping, or bloating that cannot be explained by diet or menstruation is also a reason to seek medical advice. Even if symptoms seem mild, they should not be ignored. Schedule a screening or consultation at the first sign of concern.
When Should Women Be Screened for Colon Cancer?
Colon cancer screenings help detect the disease early, often before symptoms appear. Women at average risk should begin regular screenings at age 45, while those with a family history or other risk factors may need earlier testing.
Screening is typically performed with a colonoscopy, which examines the colon and removes polyps if needed. Other tests include stool-based tests that detect blood or DNA markers.
Colonoscopies are typically recommended every 10 years, while stool tests may be done annually. Women with a higher risk may require more frequent screenings.
Treatment of Colon Cancer in Women
For early-stage colon cancer, treatment focuses on removing cancerous growths before they spread. Surgery is the primary approach, with a polypectomy or local excision used for small, localized tumors during a colonoscopy.
If cancer has grown into the colon wall, a partial colectomy may be needed to remove the affected section and nearby lymph nodes.
In some cases, minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery is an option for quicker recovery. If there’s a risk of recurrence, chemotherapy may be recommended after surgery.
Preventing Colon Cancer
By making proactive choices today, you can help protect your health and reduce the likelihood of developing colon cancer in the future.
• Eat a healthy, high-fiber diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Limit red meat and processed foods.
• Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week to maintain a healthy weight.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity is a major risk factor, so staying within a healthy weight range is important.
• Limit alcohol and avoid smoking: Both habits can increase the risk of colon cancer and other health issues.
• Get screened regularly: Begin screenings at age 45 or earlier if you have a family history or other risk factors.
• Manage chronic conditions: Effectively manage inflammatory bowel disease or type 2 diabetes to reduce your risk.
Taking Action Against Colon Cancer in Women
Living a long, healthy life requires ongoing attention to both preventive care and lifestyle choices. By prioritizing a balanced diet, exercise, and regular screenings, you can reduce your risk of colon cancer and ensure that you’re protecting your future.
The steps you take today will have a lasting impact on your health. With early detection and healthy habits, the impact of colon cancer in women can be significantly reduced.
Find out how Herself Health can help you take charge of your health today to achieve better health outcomes and lasting vitality.