The bowel is divided into the large and small bowel. The large bowel comprises the colon and rectum. Cancers that start in the large bowel are usually found in the ascending colon (or right colon), the transverse colon, the descending (or left) colon, sigmoid colon or the rectum. 

The treatment of colorectal cancer can vary depending on location and stage. The extent of the cancer depends on location and spread. Usually spread is initially to the lymph nodes but it can spread via blood to liver or lungs or to other parts of the abdominal lining. 

Who's most at risk? 

Older patients are at higher risk

Family history/genetics : those with many affected family members (particularly those of early age) and certain hereditary conditions

Chronic inflammation : Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis

Diet/Lifestyle: High intake of red meat, other carcinogen exposure



Symptoms to look for

Change in bowel habit (towards diarrhoea or constipation)

Rectal bleeding

Weight loss

Fatigue

Anaemia

Abdominal pain

A palpable mass in the abdomen or rectum