What are the Symptoms of the 14 Most Common Cancers?

5. Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer causes the growth of a malignant tumor that affects the colon (large intestine) or rectum. This type of cancer is often asymptomatic until the tumor is large or has invaded nearby tissues and organs. The most tell-tale signs of colon cancer are bleeding from the rectum and dark stool. Other early signs include cramping, bloating, a feeling of fullness in the rectum, a palpable lump or mass in the abdomen, and changes in bowel movements, either constipation, diarrhea, or narrowing of the stool. In later stages, individuals with colon or colorectal cancer may have nausea, lack of appetite, pain, swollen lymph nodes, anemia, and signs and symptoms of obstruction such as the inability to have a bowel movement or to pass gas, and abdominal swelling.