Diverticulitis, a common condition among geriatric patients, primarily affects which part of the body?

Diverticulitis primarily affects the colon, which is part of the large intestine. This condition occurs when small pouches, called diverticula, develop in the wall of the colon and become inflamed or infected. It is particularly prevalent among older adults due to age-related changes in the digestive system and a diet low in fiber, which can contribute to the formation of these pouches.

When diverticulitis occurs, symptoms may include abdominal pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits. Understanding that this condition specifically impacts the colon is crucial for diagnosis and appropriate treatment. In contrast, the other options represent different organs or sections of the digestive system that are not typically associated with diverticulitis. The stomach mainly deals with food digestion, the small intestine is involved in nutrient absorption, and the liver functions in metabolism and detoxification, making them less relevant in the context of diverticulitis.