The colon and rectum make up the large intestine, which is sometimes called the bowel. Colon cancer (also referred to as colorectal cancer) can develop from small growths of tissue in the colon and rectum called polyps. If undiscovered and untreated, these growths can become cancerous. This is a serious health risk to your colon and rectum, and can even spread to other organs.

Screening can save lives by detecting non-cancerous polyps and cancer early. A polyp can be removed before it turns into cancer. Colon cancer is easier to treat when found at an early stage.