SAN ANTONIO – It’s one of the deadliest cancers in America. But do you know the signs of colorectal cancer?
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month; the American Cancer Society estimates that 53,000 Americans will die from it in 2024.
Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second deadliest per the American Cancer Society, but doctors say it’s also one of the most preventable.
“Essentially, a 20-25 minute exam can be life-saving; I mean, who can argue with that?” said Doctor Ronaldo Saenz with Methodist Hospital Metropolitan. “We know that if they would have had the colonoscopy, there is a real good chance that we might have caught this at the growth stage,”
Saenz recommends a screening age of 45. He adds that it used to be 50, but he believes the age will continue to drop.
“That group 20-49 age we’ve seen significant amounts, it’s essentially almost doubled with regards to colon cancer and quadruple with regards to rectal cancer,” Saenz said.
Saenz explains that regardless of age, if a person is experiencing rectal bleeding, consistent changes in bowel habits, or abdominal pain, they should see a doctor. He also recommends people be aware of colorectal cancer history in immediate family members.
“Say dad had colon cancer at 40; all the kids should be getting screened at the age of 30,” Saenz said.
Saenz says a healthy lifestyle and a good diet can go a long way.
He advises eating fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and says fiber is key; he recommends 25-30 grams of fiber for women daily and 30-35 grams for men.
Colorectal cancer is a significant public health concern in the United States. With the American Cancer Society estimating that 53,000 Americans will lose their lives to this deadly disease in 2024, it is essential to raise awareness regarding the signs and preventive measures associated with it.
Being the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second deadliest, colorectal cancer poses a significant threat to individuals of all ages. However, what makes it particularly alarming is that it is also one of the most preventable cancers. This fact highlights the importance of early detection through screenings such as colonoscopies.
According to Doctor Ronaldo Saenz from Methodist Hospital Metropolitan, a simple 20-25 minute exam can be life-saving. By identifying colorectal cancer at its early growth stage, medical professionals can provide timely interventions and greatly increase the chances of positive outcomes.
Traditionally, the recommended age for screenings was 50. However, recent trends suggest that this age may continue to drop. Saenz suggests a screening age of 45, given the significant rise in colon and rectal cancers among individuals between the ages of 20 and 49. In fact, the incidence rates for these age groups have nearly doubled for colon cancer and quadrupled for rectal cancer.
Symptoms such as rectal bleeding, consistent changes in bowel habits, and abdominal pain should not be ignored, regardless of age. Saenz emphasizes the importance of seeking medical attention if any of these symptoms are experienced. Additionally, individuals should be mindful of any family history of colorectal cancer, as it may increase their own risk.
Promoting a healthy lifestyle alongside screenings is crucial in preventing colorectal cancer. Saenz recommends incorporating fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into one’s diet. Furthermore, he emphasizes the role of fiber, with women advised to consume 25-30 grams daily and men recommended to have 30-35 grams.
As we delve into the future, it is essential to recognize the relevance of such information in the context of current events and emerging trends. The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted healthcare systems worldwide, causing disruptions in routine screenings and medical care. Therefore, it becomes imperative to prioritize catching up on missed screenings and promoting awareness campaigns to ensure individuals receive timely and appropriate medical attention.
Looking ahead, technological advancements and advancements in medical research may further enhance the screening and treatment options for colorectal cancer. The integration of artificial intelligence and data analytics can potentially improve diagnostic accuracy and provide personalized treatment plans. Additionally, the development of non-invasive screening methods may encourage more individuals to undergo regular screenings, ultimately leading to early detection and better outcomes.
In conclusion, colorectal cancer remains a significant health concern, but with early detection and preventive measures, it is also one of the most preventable cancers. By raising awareness regarding the signs, encouraging early screenings, and promoting healthy lifestyles, we can reduce the impact of colorectal cancer and save more lives. It is crucial for individuals to prioritize their health, be vigilant regarding symptoms, and follow medical recommendations to stay one step ahead of this potentially deadly disease.
Sources:
– American Cancer Society
– Methodist Hospital Metropolitan
