People with colon cancer may also have other symptoms such as abdominal pain.

These symptoms are common in other gastrointestinal conditions and don’t necessarily mean you have colon cancer.

Stool with colon cancer can look thinner and have a different consistency and color than typical stools.

Potential Early Signs of Colon Cancer

Verywell / Ellen Lindner

Poop Changes in Regional Colon Cancer

Instage 3colon cancer, the malignancy hasspread to nearby lymph nodes.

Bleeding tends to be greater, although it can’t always be seen in the stool itself.

Does Poop Smell Different With Colon Cancer?

Jay N. Yepuri, MD

In this stage, poop may look black and tarry.

Also known asmelena, this is more often seen with right-sided cancer.

It happens ashemoglobinin the blood reacts with oxygen during its long passage toward the rectum.

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Although people with stage 4 colon cancer are more likely to develop symptoms, not everyone does.

Summary

Colon cancer can cause changes in the color, consistency, and frequency of your poop.

In advanced stages, poop may become black and tarry.

Changes in bowel habits and the consistency of poop can also happen with other gastrointestinal conditions.

Colon cancer is highly treatable if it’s caught in the early stages.

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