Hello, can you provide information on colon cancer? Is it preventable?

A family member was recently diagnosed with colon cancer, should I be considered?

[Sara_MHModerator]

Hello and welcome to the forum.  Thank you for your question and we're happy to help.   Colon cancer involves cancer that starts I the large intestines. It's typically a cancer that older people get and this is why starting at age 50, doctors begin recommending that their patients get colonoscopies.  However, anyone of any age can certainly get it.  If you have symptoms, it is important to tell your doctor so you can be evaluated regardless of your age.  

Here are the symptoms:
A persistent change in your bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation or a change in the consistency of your stool
Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool
Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas or pain
A feeling that your bowel doesn't empty completely
Weakness or fatigue
Unexplained weight loss

A risk factor for colon cancer is having a blood relative that has had it, so yes.  If that is the case for you, then your risk is higher of getting it.  

Here's some more information on colon cancer. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/colon-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20353669

Please let us know if you have any more questions.