Updated On: 05 March, 2024 12:32 PM IST | New Delhi | IANS
There has been a concerning trend of colon cancer affecting young people in recent years. While traditionally, colon cancer has been associated with older individuals, there's been an evident increase in diagnoses among younger adults

Image for representational purposes only. Photo Courtesy: iStock
Colon cancer or colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the colon or rectum. The colon and rectum are parts of the digestive system, responsible for processing food and eliminating waste. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), it is the second most prevalent cause of cancer-related deaths globally and the third most common cancer globally, making up around 10% of all cancer cases.
It typically develops from abnormal growths called polyps, which may initially be benign but can become cancerous over time. These polyps can grow along the inner lining of the colon or rectum, and if left untreated, may invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body, a process known as metastasis.