The development of colon cancer occurs slowly, and colon cancer is more frequently seen in the elderly than the young. This is most likely because
◦ most cancer mutations interfere with mitosis, so cell division occurs more slowly.
◦ cancer cells don't have mitochondria, so they grow slowly.
◦ usually six or more somatic mutations must occur to give rise to the cancer, which takes time.
◦ cancer cells have to wait until new blood vessels grow into the area, which takes much time.