What symptom is commonly associated with right-sided colon cancer?

• A. Obstruction
• B. Diarrhea
• C. Bleeding
• D. Fullness

Answer: (C)

Right-sided colon cancer often presents with symptoms such as bleeding, which can occur due to various factors related to the tumor's location and its effect on the colon's anatomy. The right side of the colon is primarily made up of the cecum and ascending colon, which can harbor larger tumors that may lead to significant bleeding, especially if they invade blood vessels or ulcerate.

In the case of right-sided colon cancer, patients may experience occult blood in the stool, which may not be immediately evident, leading to iron deficiency anemia over time due to chronic blood loss. This symptom is particularly critical in the context of colorectal cancer screening and monitoring, as it may prompt further investigation via colonoscopy.

While obstruction can occur in right-sided colon tumors, it is less common compared to tumors on the left side of the colon, where the lumen is narrower and more likely to lead to obstructive symptoms. Diarrhea may be associated with tumors in the left colon or rectum but is not a typical presenting symptom for right-sided colon cancer. Fullness is also not a definitive symptom linked specifically with this type of cancer, making bleeding the most relevant and frequent indicator to watch out for in patients suspected of having right-sided colon cancer.