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Home > Conditions & Concerns > Specialties  > Cancer > Colon Cancer > Introduction

Introduction

Cancer that begins in the colon is called colon cancer, and cancer that begins in the rectum is called rectal cancer. Cancers affecting either of these organs may also be called colorectal cancer. 

The colon and rectum are parts of the body's digestive system, which removes nutrients from food and stores waste until it passes out of the body. 

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Together, the colon and rectum form a long, muscular tube called the large intestine (also called the large bowel). The colon is the first six feet of the large intestine, and the rectum is the last eight to 10 inches. 

Screening tests (such as a rectal examination, proctoscopy, and colonoscopy) may be done regularly in patients who are at higher risk to get cancer. These tests may be done in patients who are over the age of 50; who have a family history of cancer of the colon, rectum, or of the female organs; who have had small non-cancerous growths (polyps) in the colon; or who have a history of ulcerative colitis (ulcers in the lining of the large intestines). A doctor may order these tests to look for cancer if there is a change in bowel habits or if there is any bleeding from the rectum. 

Tests for colorectal cancer 

The doctor may suggest one or more of the tests listed below. These tests are used to detect polyps, cancer, or other abnormalities, even when a person does not have symptoms. Your health care provider can explain more about each test. 

	A fecal occult blood test (FOBT) is a test used to check for hidden blood in the stool. Sometimes cancers or polyps can bleed, and FOBT is used to detect small amounts of bleeding.
	A sigmoidoscopy is an examination of the rectum and lower colon (sigmoid colon) using a lighted instrument called a sigmoidoscope.
	A colonoscopy is an examination of the rectum and entire colon using a lighted instrument called a colonoscope.
	A double contrast barium enema (DCBE) is a series of X-rays of the colon and rectum. The patient is given an enema with a solution that contains barium, which outlines the colon and rectum on the X-rays.
	A digital rectal exam (DRE) is an exam in which the doctor inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to feel for abnormal areas.