What is a tumor?

The word tumor is a broad term to identify any growth within the body but has become synonymous with a benign or malignant growth. At times the word neoplasm is used which is essentially a new growth of tissue that has no purpose or function in the body.

A tumor arises from uncontrolled or an abnormal growth of cells that has no physiological function in the body, occupies space or destroys surrounding tissue to fit in the specific area and can affect the function or health of the organ it affects.

Tumors should not be confused with other growth phenomenon in the body like hyperplasia or hypertrophy. These terms are used when an organ enlarges or when there is an increase in the organ’s cells or layers of tissue than would be considered the norm leading to an increase in size of the affected organ. This enlargement is not a tumor.

continue reading Characteristics of Benign and Malignant Tumors

Colon Cancer is a disease afflicting humans and is a malignant tumor, which arises from the inner wall of the large intestine (colon), or the rectum (which is the end of the colon). It is also referred to as colorectal cancer. In the United States, it is the third leading cause of cancer in males, and fourth in females.

The human colon is a tube shaped muscular organ which is about four feet in length, extending from the small bowel to the anus. It has three main functions, which are digest and absorb nutrients from the food, to concentrate fecal material by absorbing fluids, and store fecal material and control its evacuation.

continue reading Colon Cancer: A Dangerous Disease