When to suspect colon cancer

Many people with colon cancer experience no symptoms in the early stages of the disease. If signs and symptoms of colon cancer do appear, they may include changes in bowel habits, blood in your stool, persistent cramping, gas or abdominal pain.

You may notice blood in your stool or bleeding from your rectum.
Signs and symptoms of colon cancer include:
• A change in your bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation or a change in the consistency of your stool for more than a couple of weeks
• Abdominal distension
• Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas or pain
• Abdominal pain with a bowel movement
• A feeling that your bowel doesn't empty completely
• Weakness or fatigue
• Unexplained, persistent nausea or vomiting, and weight loss

These symptoms are not uncommon - and could be a sign of something far less serious.

However, doctors advise that if such symptoms persist for longer than a couple of weeks medical attention should be sought.