Colon Cancer

Overview

Colon cancer develops in the large intestine (colon). The rectum is the last several inches of the colon. Colorectal cancers include cancer of the colon and the rectum.

Most cases of colon cancer begin as small clumps of cells called polyps. Although the majority of polyps are noncancerous (benign), some can become cancerous (malignant) over time. In later stages of the disease, cancerous tumors may penetrate the colon wall and spread (metastasize) to nearby lymph nodes or other organs. Colon cancer rarely causes symptoms in its early stages.

Why choose Mayo Clinic for colon cancer

• Newest diagnostic methods. Mayo Clinic offers high-definition colonoscopy, which provides clearer images than traditional colonoscopy does and may detect more precancerous polyps. Mayo also offers virtual colonoscopy, a less invasive procedure for people who meet certain criteria.
• Advanced endoscopic techniques. Endoscopic mucosal resection is a highly technical method for removing advanced precancerous polyps that otherwise might require surgery of the involved area of the colon.
• Advanced surgical techniques. In colon and rectal surgery, Mayo Clinic's skilled colorectal surgeons perform advanced surgical and minimally invasive (laparoscopic) options, including robotic surgeries that not only treat disease but also help preserve urinary and sexual function.
• Expertise and experience. Mayo Clinic specialists are highly experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of colon cancer, including rare genetic forms, such as familial adenomatous polyposis, Lynch syndrome, Peutz-Jeghers syndrome and juvenile polyposis syndrome. A major colon cancer screening center, Mayo Clinic performs more than 20,000 colonoscopies and hundreds of virtual colonoscopies each year.
• Newest research. Mayo Clinic researchers contribute significantly to the development of early detection, prevention, diagnostic and treatment strategies for colon and rectal cancer. Mayo Clinic's long-standing collaboration with the National Institutes of Health fosters creative research.

Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., is ranked among the Best Hospitals for cancer by U.S. News & World Report. Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Fla., and Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Ariz., are ranked high performing for cancer by U.S. News & World Report.

Mayo Clinic: Answers you can trust

At Mayo Clinic, we assemble a team of specialists who take the time to listen and thoroughly understand your health issues and concerns. We tailor the care you receive to your personal health care needs. You can trust our specialists to collaborate and offer you the best possible outcomes, safety and service.

Mayo Clinic is a not-for-profit medical institution that reinvests all earnings into improving medical practice, research and education. We're constantly involved in innovation and medical research, finding solutions to improve your care and quality of life. Your doctor or someone on your medical team is likely involved in research related to your condition.

Our patients tell us that the quality of their interactions, our attention to detail and the efficiency of their visits mean health care — and trusted answers — like they've never experienced.

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Read more about colon polyps and colon cancer.