Which Cancers Have Lower Back Pain As a Symptom?

Cancers that have lower back pain as a symptom are rectum, ovary and colon cancer, states the American Cancer Society. However, cancer that results in back pain doesn’t necessarily start in these organs because back pain is a sign that it has already metastasized or spread.

Besides back pain, other symptoms of cancer, especially ovary, rectum and colon cancer, include fatigue, pain, weight loss, changes in bowel and bladder function and bleeding, says the American Cancer Association. One of the first symptoms of colon cancer is fatigue caused by blood loss. This blood loss is often seen in the stool for those with colon or rectal cancer. Bladder and bowel habits also change. For instance, those with colon cancer can either experience chronic diarrhea or constipation.

Back pain, weight loss, pelvis discomfort, and bladder and bowel issues indicate ovarian cancer, according to Mayo Clinic. A woman with this problem experiences both constipation and frequent urination. Eating can cause abdominal bloating and swelling along with feelings of fullness. This results in weight loss. Some factors can exacerbate the risk of developing this type of cancer such as age, smoking, fertility treatments and hormone replacement therapies. Women who have a history of cysts on their ovaries are also more likely to develop ovarian cancer.