This is a sub-category of All cancer deaths (see Map 7). The colon is part of the digestive system. Colon cancer and rectal cancer are referred to as ‘colorectal cancer’ or ‘bowel cancer’.

See also Map 71 Cancer of gullet, Map 72 Pancreatic cancer, Map 74 Rectal cancer and Map 78 Stomach cancer.

This map is very different from both that for rectal cancer (Map 74) and that for stomach cancer (Map 78). Rates here do not reach the extremes shown on those maps.

There is an east–west divide, with rates in the west higher than those to the east. Northern Scotland, and west Wales tend to have the higher rates, with particularly high rates found in Liverpool Riverside North, Montrose and Arbroath, and Dyce in Aberdeen.

The low rates in Yorkshire seen here are similar to the low rates also seen there for deaths from cancer of the gullet.

Colon cancer is cancer of the large bowel. It starts with the abnormal growth of cells in the lining of the bowel. Small lumps called polyps, which can also be referred to as tumours, form; they are usually benign, but can become malignant. Malignant tumours can spread to other parts of the body.

As with rectal cancer, a change in bowel habits or blood in the stool can be the first indication of disease. If diagnosed early, then bowel cancer can be cured. There is an NHS Bowel Cancer Screening programme that is offered every two years to all men and women aged 60–69. A diet high in fibre may help to prevent this type of cancer.

Israeli politician Moshe Dayan and singer songwriter Ian Dury died from this cause.