The colon and rectum are about 2 meters (6.5 feet) long.

The colon works alongside the stomach andsmall intestineto remove stool and maintain fluid and electrolyte balance.

Understanding how the colon works is the first step to keeping your colon healthy.

Colon Cancer

Colon cancer can occur in any section of the colon.

Atortuous colonis one that is longer than normal.

The colon must reabsorb water and electrolytes to form a stool.

The colon needs to pull more fluid from the stool for your body to use.

It is possible to live without a colon.

However, all 6 feet of your colon serve a purpose.

Many lifestyle-related factors have been linked to colorectal cancer.

The presence of certain polyps, such asadenomas, present a higher risk of cancer.

Factors including genetics, underlying health conditions, and lifestyle habits can increase the risk.

Colonoscopy screenings are an important tool for identifying and removing polyps.

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