The descending colon is a part of the large intestine located on the left side of the abdomen. It follows the transverse colon and leads into the sigmoid colon. Its primary function is to store waste and absorb water and nutrients from the digested food as it moves toward the rectum. This section of the colon is about 10 to 15 inches long and plays a crucial role in the digestive process. Problems in the descending colon, such as inflammation or blockages, can lead to conditions like diverticulitis or colon cancer, affecting overall digestive health.