With the passing of “Black Panther” star Chadwick Boseman from complications related to colon cancer, many are now wondering what it is exactly and how to avoid it.

According to mayoclinic.org, colon cancer usually begins as small, benign clumps of cells called polyps that form on the inside of the colon.

These polyps may be small and produce few, if any, symptoms.

Signs and symptoms

If colon cancer develops, some of the signs and symptoms include a persistent change in bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation or a change in the consistency of your stool.

There may also be bleeding, or actual blood present in the stool.

Some report of persistent abdominal discomfort, including cramps or gas, fatigue and unexplained weight loss.

If you notice any of these persistent symptoms, it is best to quickly make an appointment with your doctor for cancer screening.

There’s no certainty on what causes colon cancer. But cancer cells can grow to invade and destroy normal tissue nearby.

Risk factors

Some of the factors that may increase your risk of colon cancer include age, race (African-Americans have a greater risk of colon cancer than do people of other races study shows), family history, chronic inflammatory diseases of the colon, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

A diet that is low in fiber and high in fat may also contribute to the formation of colon cancer but research in this area has had mixed results.

Then there’s diabetes, obesity, smoking and alcohol.

Cancer screening

Doctors recommend that people with an average risk of colon cancer consider colon cancer screening around age 50. But people with an increased risk, such as those with a family history of colon cancer, should consider screening sooner.

You can also take steps to reduce your risk of colon cancer by making changes in your everyday life including eating more fruits and vegetables, maintaining a healthy weight and regular exercise.