Colorectal cancer is the out-of-control growth of cells in the colon or rectum. These cells grow into masses, or tumors. Most colorectal cancers begin as polyps, which are growths attached to the inside of the colon or rectum. Colon po
A fecal occult blood test finds blood in the stool by placing a small sample of stool on a chemically treated card, pad, or wipe. Then a special chemical solution is put on top of the sample. If the card, pad, or cloth turns blue, ther
A stool analysis is a series of tests done on a stool (feces) sample to help diagnose certain conditions affecting the digestive tract. These conditions can include infection (such as from parasites, viruses, or bacteria
Unless colon polyps are large and cause bleeding or pain, the only way to know if you have polyps is to have one or more tests that explore the inside surface of your colon.
Colon cancer genetic testing is a blood test that can tell you whether you carry a rare changed, or mutated, gene that can cause colon cancer. Although most people who get colon cancer do not have one of these mutated genes, havin
A barium enema, or lower gastrointestinal (GI) examination, is an X-ray examination of the large intestine (colon and rectum). The test is used to help diagnose diseases and other problems that affect the large intestine. To make
Colonoscopy is a test that allows your doctor to look at the inner lining of your large intestine (rectum and colon). He or she uses a thin, flexible tube called a colonoscope to look at the colon. A colonoscopy helps find ul
Anoscopy, proctoscopy, and sigmoidoscopy tests allow your health professional to look at the inner lining of your anus, rectum, and the lower part of the large intestine (colon). These tests are used to look for abnormal grow
The carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) test measures the amount of this protein that may appear in the blood of some people who have certain kinds of cancers, especially large intestine (colon and rectal) cancer. It may also be present in
A virtual colonoscopy uses X-rays and computers (computed tomography [CT] or magnetic resonance imaging [MRI]) to take two- or three-dimensional images of the interior lining of your large intestine (colon) and rectum. A virtual c
When colon cancer is caught early, it is easily treated and often cured. Still, it is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in America.
Know the Warning Signs »Join a Yahoo! Group and discuss topics with other members of the group.
See All Colon Cancer Groups »Search the Web for
Colon CancerColonoscopy - See what takes place during a colonoscopy.
Here’s a sweet treat that may actually be good for your teeth: dates. Read More »
View All Tips »Tell us what you think about Yahoo! Health - Send us your feedback