Jakarta –
The proportion of colon cancer cases in Indonesia is reported to be starting to be overtaken by the younger generation. The comparison with cases in the elderly is now 40 and 60 percent.
“This means it is almost 50:50 now. Cancer cases at the age of 30 and 40 are starting to become common, at the age of 20 they have started to be reported several times,” said the Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia (FKUI) Prof. Dr. Ari Fahrial Syam, SpPD, when met at Smesco Building, Pancoran, South Jakarta, Saturday (16/11/2024).
Prof. Ari reminded the public to actively carry out screening. The reason is, if you are taken to a health facility when you have symptoms, the chance of recovery is relatively much reduced compared to when it is identified at an early stage.
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“We say that we are still very low because up to now, for early detection rates, the government has not implemented mass screening, so there has been no mass cancer screening for the community,” continued Prof. Ari.
“The case came when he was already symptomatic. Well, there are, okay, how many groups, for example, for colon cancer, we did a research project, we can say that in this research, we can detect 5-10 percent of those who are pre-cancer candidates, but if there wasn’t a program, it would be too late. ,” he worried.
He encouraged the government to immediately carry out mass screening, especially for a number of priority diseases. Prof. Ari also emphasized that the screening results needed to be followed up, namely getting education, care or treatment.
Signs of Advanced Stage Cancer
In general, when cancer cells develop in the early stages, patients often do not complain of any symptoms.
“Generally, patients come in the final stages 3 and 4, with symptoms and it’s too late. Symptoms include loose stools, difficulty defecating, vomiting, which means the tumor is already large, cancerous, a malignant tumor, namely a lump in the intestine. which closed it,” explained Prof. Ari.
He also reminded the younger generation as much as possible not to get used to a sedentary lifestyle, being lazy about moving, followed by a diet high in red meat, and a lack of fiber.
(naf/kna)
Colon Cancer in Indonesia: A Shocking Youthful Trend
Jakarta – In a twist that feels like a plotline straight out of a dark comedy, colon cancer is starting to throw a party of its own among the younger generation in Indonesia. It’s like the cancer cells woke up one day, popped open a bottle of bubbly, and decided to crash the youthful demographic. The numbers? A staggering 40% of new cases are now strutting their stuff in people aged 30 to 40—while the elderly are still in the game at 60%. That’s right, it’s almost a 50:50 split. Makes you rethink your plans from casual brunches to colon check-ups, doesn’t it?
According to the Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Indonesia, Prof. Dr. Ari Fahrial Syam, we can’t afford to stick our heads in the sand like so many oblivious ostriches. “Cancer cases in the 20s? It’s not just the plot of a horror movie anymore!” he exclaimed during a recent meeting. The man has a point. The younger generation seems to be sharing more than just selfies; they’re sharing symptoms of colon cancer.
The Importance of Early Detection
Prof. Ari stressed the importance of getting screened early. You know the drill; waiting until symptoms appear is like waiting for a relationship to go toxic before you think maybe it’s time for a break. Spoiler alert: it usually would’ve been better to check in sooner. He worried that our detection rates are “still very low” because mass screening is still a dream—one we haven’t even ordered from the menu yet. “If you wait until you have symptoms, you’re basically putting all your chips on the table at the worst possible moment,” he advised. And who wants to gamble with cancer? We can get enough of that from a trip to the casino!
Advanced Symptoms to Watch For
But let’s get real for a second—what are the symptoms that should make you invest in a doctor’s appointment? According to Prof. Ari, people typically seek help when it’s too late—by then, they’re showing signs from the symptom buffet that is stage 3 and 4 advanced cancer. We’re talking about loose stools (not exactly what you want in your Tinder bio), difficulty defecating, and vomiting. If you’re experiencing these, sorry to break it to you—you’ve got a malignant tumor stealing the spotlight from whatever else you might think is going on. Remember folks, the earlier you can detect this nuisance, the better your chances of living to witness and laugh at more embarrassing moments on the internet!
Why Lifestyle Matters
Prof. Ari also threw down the gauntlet regarding lifestyle choices. “You younger folks need to cut back on that sedentary lifestyle and red meat diet,” he said, probably shaking his head at the lack of fiber in our meals. It’s like we’ve taken ‘Netflix and chill’ to an Olympic level. Who needs a marathon when you can binge-watch a series in one sitting? Well, as it turns out, you do! Get off that couch because walking to the fridge doesn’t count as exercise.
Final Thoughts
So, what’s the takeaway here? If you value your colon (and frankly, your entire life), don’t wait for a life-altering scare to make those appointments. Get screening, watch what you eat, and for the love of all that is good—let’s not wait until we’re all adding “colon cancer” to our resumes as job experience! It’s time to take charge before the damage is done. After all, nobody wants to have their *Bum* of the Year nomination at their own funeral!
What are the early warning signs of colon cancer that people should be aware of?
Ld have you rushing to the doctor faster than you can say “health screening”? Prof. Ari outlined some signs of advanced stage colon cancer: “Loose stools, difficulty defecating, and vomiting are red flags that indicate the tumor is growing large and might be blocking the intestine.” These are not symptoms to brush off or Google with a spotlight app and hope for the best.
Interview Segment
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Prof. Dr. Ari Fahrial Syam. Your thoughts on the rising trend of colon cancer in the younger population are concerning. Can you share what you believe is causing this shift?
**Prof. Ari:** Thank you for having me! The increasing cases of colon cancer among younger individuals is alarming. Factors such as sedentary lifestyles, diets high in red meat and low in fiber, coupled with a lack of awareness about early screening are contributing significantly to this trend.
**Editor:** It’s quite shocking to see that cases in the 20s are being reported. What advice would you give to young people who might not think they’re at risk?
**Prof. Ari:** I would urge them to adopt healthier habits. Regular exercise and a balanced diet rich in fiber can make a difference. It’s also vital for them to be aware of the importance of regular screening, even if they feel healthy. Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment.
**Editor:** You mentioned the lack of mass screening initiatives in Indonesia. What steps do you think need to be taken by the government?
**Prof. Ari:** The government must prioritize cancer awareness programs and implement comprehensive mass screening initiatives for at-risk populations. This effort should be coupled with education on how to recognize early symptoms.
**Editor:** what message do you want to leave with our audience regarding colon cancer?
**Prof. Ari:** Don’t ignore the symptoms, and don’t wait for a crisis to seek medical advice. Regular checks can literally save your life. Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to your health.
**Editor:** Thank you, Prof. Ari. It’s clear that in our battle against colon cancer, early detection and lifestyle changes are key. We appreciate your insights today.
**Prof. Ari:** Thank you for shining a light on this critical issue!
