Screening could save a life

A RECENT OBSERVATIONAL STUDY ON COLORECTAL CANCER IN UAE SHOWED 14% INCIDENCE BELOW AGE OF 40 YEARS

Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that begins in the large intestine or the rectum. It is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women worldwide. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 1 in 23 men and 1 in 25 women will develop colon cancer in their lifetime.

The good news is that colon cancer is preventable and treatable if caught early. This is why raising awareness about the disease, its risk factors, symptoms, and prevention methods is essential.

RISK FACTORS:

Several factors increase the risk of developing colon cancer, including:

• Age: Colon cancer is more common in people over 50.
• Family history: Individuals with colon cancer have an increased risk of developing the disease.
• Personal history: People with colon cancer or other types of cancer have a higher risk of developing colon cancer.
• Lifestyle: Poor diet, lack of physical activity, smoking, and excessive alcohol increase the risk of colon cancer.
  
   

SYMPTOMS:

Colon cancer often does not cause symptoms in its early stages. 

Tell your doctor if you have any of these symptoms.

•  A change in bowel habits
•  Blood in stool during your bowel movement
•  Diarrhea is Constipation or the feeling that the bowel does not empty all the way. 
• Abdominal pain aches on cramps that do not go away.
• Weight loss, and you don't know why.
• If you experience any of these symptoms, you should see your doctor.
  
   

PREVENTION:

The best way to prevent colon cancer is to maintain a healthy lifestyle and undergo regular screening. Here are some tips to reduce your risk of developing colon cancer:

• Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Exercise regularly.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
• Undergo regular screening for colon cancer, especially if you are over 50 or have a family history.

SCREENING:

Screening tests are essential for detecting colon cancer early when it is most treatable. There are several screening options available, including:

• Colonoscopy: This is the most common screening test for colon cancer. During a colonoscopy, a doctor uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera to examine the inside of the colon and rectum.
• Fecal occult blood test: This test checks for hidden blood in the stool, which can be a sign of colon cancer.
• Sigmoidoscopy: This test is similar to a colonoscopy but only examines the colon's lower part.
• CT colonography: This test uses CT scanning to examine the colon and rectum.

CATCHING IT EARLY! 

1. Colonoscopy -Done every 10 years
2. Flexible Sigmoidoscopy -Done every 5 years 
3. CT Colonography -Every 5 year

This is for average-risk individuals. High-risk individuals experiencing any symptoms should speak to the doctor right away.

If you have altered bowel movements, you can try a home-based test kit to detect occult blood in your stool. 

SUMMARY:

Colon cancer is a significant public health concern but is preventable and treatable. By raising awareness about the disease and its risk factors, symptoms, and prevention, we can encourage more people to undergo regular screening and take steps to reduce their risk of developing colon cancer. Remember to eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, maintain a healthy weight, quit smoking, and limit alcohol consumption. By working together, we can make a difference in the fight against colon cancer.

(Source CDC)

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