Colon cancer

Learn about colon cancer, screening and how to reduce your risk.

About colon cancer

Colon cancer is any cancer in the large intestine, made up of the colon and the rectum. It is often called colorectal (CRC) or large bowel cancer.

The large intestine with the following parts labelled: ascending colon, cecum, rectum, transverse colon, descending colon, sigmoid colon and anus. Image courtesy of Canadian Cancer Society.


Most colon cancers start as small growths in the colon or rectum. These growths are called polyps and can bleed. Over time, some polyps turn into cancer.

Colon polyps. Image courtesy of Cancer Care Manitoba.

Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in New Brunswick. Around 640 people are diagnosed with colon cancer every year, and 260 die from the disease.

Colon cancer can be prevented and is one of the most treatable cancers if detected early.

Warning signs

Colon cancer grows slowly and often has no warning signs or symptoms until the cancer is more advanced. Common signs of colon cancer include:

  • rectal bleeding or any sign of blood after bowel movements
  • lasting change in bowel habits such as:
    • diarrhea or constipation for more than a few weeks
    • stools which are consistently more narrow than usual
    • feeling that you cannot completely empty your bowel
  • unexplained weight loss, tiredness or exhaustion

If you have any of these warning signs for colon cancer, see a primary health-care provider.

Resources