Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer among men and the second most common cancer among women worldwide. It refers to any excessive growth in the colon and rectum that are part of the tiny canal. If diagnosed early, cancer can be well controlled, with high treatment rates. However, due to the onset of symptoms in other gastrointestinal conditions, the diagnosis usually occurs at later stages, making it more lethal.
Dr Umesh Das, Consultant Medical Oncologist at Nemcare Hospital in Guwahati, will share facts, figures and information about colorectal cancer.
Information you can’t ignore.
1. In the year 2018, more than 1.8 million new cases of colorectal cancer were seen among all sexes of all ages.
2. According to the World Health Organization, colorectal cancer accounted for more than 9.2% of cancer deaths in the year 2018
3. The mortality rate of colorectal cancer is higher in men than in women.
Now, here ‘s all you need to have to prevent falls as a prey to date, the good doctor explains.
What is colorectal cancer?
It is a disease in which cells in the colon or rectum divide uncontrollably, producing a tumor.
What is colorectal metastatic cancer?
Metastatic colorectal cancer indicates that cancer has spread from the colorectal space to other parts of the body.
How many people suffer from this disease?
While about 55% of the world’s cancer cases occur in developed countries, as many as 52% of such deaths occur in less developed countries.
In India, approximately 49,500 deaths occur due to colorectal cancer every year!
What are the early symptoms of colorectal cancer?
It may start as a polyp (but not all polyps grow cancerous). Adenomatous polyps are predictive, while hyperplastic polyps do not usually turn into cancer.
What are the risk factors?
You are at high risk if you have Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s disease, Polyps in the colon and / or hereditary colorectal cancer syndrome. Lifestyle factors such as a high-fat diet, excessive red meat consumption, a low-fiber diet, high obesity and an inactive lifestyle can make you a high-risk person.
What are the screening tests?
There are three screening tests to detect this medical condition: Fecal Blood Test (FOBT), Digital Rectal Examination and Sigmoidoscopy or Colonoscopy.
What are the treatment options?
Surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy are the treatment options for colorectal cancers. In addition to the conventional treatment modalities, targeted therapy and immunotherapy have shown great potential as cancer therapeutic agents.
Are there genetic Biomarker tests?
Knowing your biomarker status is crucial in colorectal cancer. ‘RAS’ is a biomarker that helps your oncologist decide on treatment in metastatic colorectal cancer conditions.
How do you prevent colorectal cancer?
The risk of total colon cancer can be reduced by being physically active, eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, limiting fast food, fried and junk diet. Regular exercise and weight control are essential. Also, limiting alcohol consumption is an essential part in preventing this medical condition.
The most important thing when it comes to colorectal cancer is to catch it early before it spreads. Prevention and early detection are crucial in increasing survival rates. Regardless of age, get yourself screened for colorectal cancer because prevention is always better than cure.
Disclaimer: This article was produced on behalf of Merck Specialties Private Limited. The views and opinions expressed in the article by participating physicians are based on their independent professional judgment and TIL assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of their opinions. This should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. Please speak to your GP for more information.