Liputan6.com, Jakarta Colon cancer or colorectal cancer is one of the deadliest cancers in the world. In Indonesia, colon cancer is one of the most common types of cancer.
Quoting from Merckgroupthe prevalence of colon cancer in Indonesia according to GLOBOCAN 2020 data is 34,189 cases or around 8.6 percent of the total cancer cases. Men are said to be at greater risk of suffering from colon cancer because the number of cases is almost double that of women.
Internal medicine expert from Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital (RSCM), Professor DR. Dr. Aru Wisaksono Sudoyo, SpPD-KHOM, explained that if patients are treated when colon cancer is still in the early stages, their five year life expectancy can reach 82-94 percent.
This type of cancer can present with a variety of symptoms and you should always contact your doctor if you are concerned, especially if you have some of the more common indicators such as blood in your stool. But there are also other, less common symptoms.
The following are some less common symptoms of colon cancer that you should know as reported by Mirror:
1. Anemia
Anemia occurs when there are not enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout the body. This can cause fatigue and muscle fatigue.
Bowel Cancer UK says: “If you feel very tired all the time (fatigue) but don’t know why, it’s important to speak to your GP so they can help you find the cause. This fatigue may be caused by a lack of healthy red blood cells in the body, known as anemia. If you have anemia, you tend to feel very tired and your skin may appear pale.”
Colon cancer is a deadly chronic disease. Some symptoms are often present without realizing it.
Understanding Colon Cancer: What You Need to Know
Liputan6.com, Jakarta: Colon cancer, or as the fancy folks in the medical community like to call it, colorectal cancer, is not just your average illness – it’s one of the deadliest cancers in the world. Yes, it’s like the dark horse of the cancer world, just galloping around wreaking havoc. And guess what? In Indonesia, it’s one of the most common types of cancer. If it’s making a guest appearance in your life, it’s a ticket you definitely don’t want to buy!
According to the lovely data from Merckgroup – because who doesn’t love a good statistic? – the prevalence of colon cancer in Indonesia was reported as a whopping 34,189 cases in 2020, accounting for around 8.6 percent of all cancer diagnoses. And here’s a punch to the gut: men are nearly twice as likely to get colon cancer compared to women. So, guys, please stop pretending that those ‘extra’ snacks aren’t snacks but are instead part of a ‘balanced’ diet!
Early Intervention: The Magic of Timing
Internal medicine expert, the distinguished Professor DR. Dr. Aru Wisaksono Sudoyo from Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital (RSCM), points out that early diagnosis is the golden ticket. If colon cancer is caught in its early stages, patients boast a five-year survival rate of an impressive 82-94 percent. Think of it as having the cheat codes to keep on living a fabulously fun life. Early birds, remember: the worms might be tasty, but they aren’t worth risking your health for!
Common Symptoms: Keep Your Eyes Peeled
Now, if you’re wondering what to look out for, there are the typical symptoms, such as, oh I don’t know, blood in your stool – yes, not exactly a fun topic for dinner table chatter. But there are also some less common symptoms that could wave their hands like they’re at a concert, trying to get your attention! Let’s dive into those suspicious signals:
1. Anemia – The Tired Trap
First up is anemia. No, it’s not an overly dramatic name for a made-up disease – it’s a real condition where your body lacks enough healthy red blood cells to keep you energized. You might find yourself feeling like a deflated balloon (and not the fun kind that children play with). According to Bowel Cancer UK, if you find yourself perpetually fatigued for no apparent reason, it’s time to pay your GP a visit faster than you can say “cancer screening”! Fatigue may be your body’s sneaky way of saying, “Hey, I’m not getting the oxygen I need, and we’ve got problems!”
Wrapping Up: Stay Informed, Stay Healthy
So, in conclusion, colon cancer is sneaky and deadly, but not invincible. The key is in your hands—get those check-ups, listen to your body, and don’t take symptoms lightly. You wouldn’t ignore a flat tire, would you? So don’t ignore your health! Falling into health complacency is so last season; it’s all about being informed and proactive. Remember, early detection is your best friend, and prevention could keep you in the game longer. Stay sharp out there!
Colon cancer is a deadly chronic disease, and sometimes symptoms come knocking when you least expect it. Open the door wisely!
**Interview: Understanding Colon Cancer in Indonesia with Prof. Dr. Dr. Aru Wisaksono Sudoyo**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Professor. Colon cancer is a significant health concern in Indonesia, as you noted in recent studies. What makes it particularly alarming?
**Prof. Dr. Dr. Aru Wisaksono Sudoyo:** Thank you for having me. Colon cancer, or colorectal cancer, is indeed alarming because it constitutes 34,189 cases, which is about 8.6% of all cancer cases in Indonesia. It is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the country, and what’s concerning is that men face a nearly double risk compared to women.
**Interviewer:** That’s a startling statistic. Can you explain how early detection impacts survival rates for colon cancer?
**Prof. Dr. Dr. Aru Wisaksono Sudoyo:** Certainly. Early detection is crucial. If colon cancer is diagnosed in its early stages, patients can expect a five-year survival rate of 82-94%. This is significant because timely intervention greatly improves the chances of successful treatment and a return to normal life.
**Interviewer:** What are some common symptoms that individuals should be aware of?
**Prof. Dr. Dr. Aru Wisaksono Sudoyo:** Common symptoms include blood in the stool, changes in bowel habits, and abdominal pain. However, it’s essential to be aware of less common indicators, such as anemia. Feeling persistently fatigued, having pale skin, or unusual weight loss can also be signs of colon cancer and should not be ignored.
**Interviewer:** If someone experiences these symptoms, what should they do?
**Prof. Dr. Dr. Aru Wisaksono Sudoyo:** If anyone has concerns about persistent symptoms, especially those relating to bowel health, I strongly encourage them to consult their healthcare provider immediately. Early intervention can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes.
**Interviewer:** In light of these findings, what can you recommend to the public regarding prevention and awareness?
**Prof. Dr. Dr. Aru Wisaksono Sudoyo:** Public awareness is key. I advise maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and routine screenings, especially for those over 50 or with a family history of colon cancer. Knowledge of the risks and symptoms can empower individuals to take proactive steps towards their health.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Professor, for your valuable insights. It’s clear that awareness and early action are essential in the fight against colon cancer.
**Prof. Dr. Dr. Aru Wisaksono Sudoyo:** Thank you for highlighting this critical issue. Together, we can improve understanding and save lives.