World Colon and Rectal Cancer Day is commemorated every March 31. This is a disease that, although it usually occurs in people over 50 years of age, can appear in youth.
According to the World Health Organization, this disease registers around 240,000 new cases each year. Of these, 96,000 patients die, which is worrying considering that this type of cancer is a preventable and curable disease. if diagnosed early and treated properly.
Therefore, medical experts recommend a diet low in animal fat and rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to reduce the risk of chronic conditions, such as coronary heart disease and diabetes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
That is why, to educate regarding its signs and symptoms, and raise awareness regarding timely diagnosis, Johnson & Johnson MedTech has joined the Colombian Association of Coloproctology to call for timely diagnosis through preventive colonoscopy with the campaign #EsSoloUnMomento, since, despite prevailing in the population over 50 years of age, colon and rectal cancer can appear at an early age.
“Colon and rectal cancer manifests symptoms in advanced stages. Usually begins with very subtle changes in bowel habit, appearance of rectal bleeding and, in some cases, unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain, weakness and fatigue”, says Dr. Juan Carlos Reyes, president of the Colombian Association of Coloproctology.
“Polyps are precursors to colorectal cancer and, if present, can be seen through colonoscopy to be removed and prevent them from turning into cancer. Really, the problem is when they are not detected and grow, so it is key to see a doctor and request this test preventively”, he adds.
Its early detection is a challenge. In addition to regular and preventive routine examinations, not ignoring signs and symptoms is essential for timely diagnosis:
- Changes in bowel habits (eg, diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of stools) that last for several days
- Feeling of wanting to have a bowel movement (go to the bathroom), which is not relieved by doing so
- Rectal bleeding
- Dark stools or blood in the stools (although stools often look normal)
- Cramps or abdominal (belly) pain
- weakness and fatigue
- Unintentional weight loss
While in Colombia, the Global Cancer Observatory noted that the incidence of cancer has increased over the last 20 years and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) predicts that by 2030 the incidence of colon and rectal cancer will increase by 60%, if preventive measures are not taken.
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