Colon cancer, popularly known as bowel cancer, is the 3rd most common cancer in men and women. Colon cancer, which ranks 2nd among cancer-related deaths all over the world, is formed by the uncontrolled proliferation of cells in the mucous membranes surrounding the inner surface of the large intestine. Therefore, early detection of polyps in the large intestine can increase the chance of success in treatment. From the Department of General Surgery at Memorial Şişli Hospital, Prof. Dr. İlknur Erenler Bayraktar gave information about the causes, symptoms and treatment methods of colon cancer in the “March 1-31 Colon Cancer Awareness Month”.

Excessive consumption of red meat may increase the risk of colon cancer

Cancer tumors, which are formed by the uncontrolled proliferation of cells in the mucous membranes on the inner surface of the large intestine, often progress without any symptoms. Insidious colon cancer risk factors increase a person’s risk of developing cancer. The elderly, men, those with a family history, those with adenomatous polyps, those with 2nd other cancer, those with some familial disease syndrome, those with inflammatory bowel diseases, those who are sedentary, those who are overweight, smokers, those who consume large amounts of red meat and processed foods. increased risk of cancer.

Don’t underestimate weight loss and persistent fatigue

Colon cancer symptoms can also be seen in many different non-cancerous diseases. The symptoms of colon cancer may also vary depending on the location of the cancer in the intestine. Therefore, if the following symptoms are observed, the patient should definitely consult a physician;

•        Change of bowel habits

• Diarrhea

•        Constipation

•        Painful defecation, that is, defecation

•        Blood seen in the stool

•        Unexplained weight loss

•        Iron deficiency anemia

•        Chronic fatigue

Do not neglect to have a colonoscopy after the age of 45

Healthy people should be screened after the age of 40. However, individuals with a family history of cancer, polyps, genetically transmitted syndromes, and individuals with a history of inflammatory bowel disease are recommended to start screening earlier. For screening, rectal examination, stool occult blood (FOG) analysis, colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, fecal DNA test, CT colonoscopy are performed. It begins with an annual rectal examination and FOB test in the 40s. After the age of 50, a sigmoidoscopy every 5 years or a colonoscopy every 10 years is required. In addition, some blood tests and biochemical markers called tumor markers are also checked. The examinations requested may vary according to the patients. Sometimes several methods can be used simultaneously.

Patient-specific treatment and holistic approach increase the success rate

Early diagnosis of cancer is very important for the planning and success of treatment. It gives survival rates after cancer diagnosis. These rates vary according to the stage of the disease. In early stage, localized disease, this rate is over 90%. That’s why colorectal cancer screening is so important. It allows the disease to be diagnosed and treated early. Colorectal cancer treatment; It is determined by a multidisciplinary team consisting of general surgery, medical oncology, radiation oncology, pathology, radiology and gastroenterology specialists. Treatment options may vary according to the stage of the disease and the general health status of the patient. These treatment options; surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy applications. Depending on the stage of the cancer, its spread to the body, the age of the patient and other health problems, these treatment methods can be applied individually or in combination.

Make your lifestyle healthy too

In the fight against colon cancer, it will be beneficial to take some precautions other than screening programs. A healthy diet and regular physical activity should be given importance. In order to minimize the risk of colon cancer, it is necessary to prefer foods high in vegetable fiber with reduced saturated fat content, exercise at least half an hour a day and avoid smoking and alcohol.

Source: (BYZHA) – Beyaz News Agency