Colorectal Cancer: Symptoms, Risk Factors, and Screening

Posted on October 16, 2024 by IGA

Today, we bring attention to a critical health issue that often goes unnoticed in Pakistan: colorectal cancer. This is a form of cancer that affects the large intestine and rectum and has been recognized globally for decades. However, the awareness level in Pakistan remains significantly lower compared to countries like the US and those in Europe.

In this article, we will explore the symptoms of colorectal cancer, the risk factors associated with it, the importance of early diagnosis, and how we can screen for and prevent this disease. Additionally, we’ll discuss related concerns such as endoscopy symptoms, peg tube infection symptoms, endoscopy risks, and colonoscopy symptoms, which are all part of the screening and treatment processes.

Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer often goes undiagnosed because the symptoms can be subtle or mistaken for other health issues. However, there are some signs you should watch for:

Rectal Bleeding: One of the early signs is bleeding from the rectum, which can sometimes be mistaken for hemorrhoids.
Painful Defecation: Especially in cases where cancer affects the rectum, patients may experience pain during bowel movements.
Abdominal Discomfort: If the cancer is located in the colon, it may cause obstruction, leading to difficulty in passing stools.
Weakness and Anemia: As the disease progresses, patients may experience unexplained fatigue or weakness due to anemia, a condition where there is a lack of blood in the body, even without visible bleeding.

Who is at Risk?

Colorectal cancer is a global issue, affecting both men and women, particularly in Europe and the US. In the past, the common age for diagnosis was between 50 and 55 years. However, more recently, younger individuals, between the ages of 40 and 45, are being diagnosed with the disease. In Pakistan, unfortunately, many patients only seek medical help when the cancer has reached an advanced stage.

Several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer, including:

Smoking: A well-known risk factor for many types of cancers.
Being Overweight: Excess body weight is linked to an increased risk.
Diet: High consumption of red meats like mutton and beef, as well as alcohol, can elevate the risk.
Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity further contributes to the problem.
Family History: A family history of colorectal cancer or polyposis increases the risk significantly.

Screening and Early Detection: The Key to Prevention

While diagnosing colorectal cancer early is crucial, it is even more important to focus on screening and prevention. Screening tests, particularly colonoscopy and flexible sigmoidoscopy, can help detect and remove polyps (small abnormal growths) before they turn cancerous. These procedures are generally safe, but it’s important to be aware of sigmoidoscopy risks, such as infection or bowel perforation.

In Pakistan, for people over the age of 40, it is recommended that everyone undergo a colonoscopy at least once in their lifetime. This is especially important for those with a family history of cancer, as well as individuals with risk factors such as smoking, obesity, or poor dietary habits. There are some risks associated with these procedures, including upper endoscopy risks and ERCP procedure risks, but the benefits of early detection far outweigh the risks.

There is a phrase often used in the medical community: “Colorectal cancer is a disease of missed opportunity.” This refers to the fact that early signs, like small polyps, can be easily missed if not screened for, allowing the disease to progress into a serious condition over the course of 5-7 years. With proper screening, we can prevent many cases from advancing.

Why Screening Matters in Pakistan

In developed countries, routine screenings and early detection have significantly reduced colorectal cancer deaths. In Pakistan, where awareness remains low, many patients are diagnosed only when the disease has reached an advanced stage, making treatment options more limited and less effective. Awareness about related screening tests, such as hepatitis C screening tests and hepatitis screening tests, can also help in early diagnosis of liver conditions, which may complicate the patient’s overall health.

The goal is to raise awareness about the importance of colonoscopy, particularly for individuals aged 35 to 40 and above, to detect any early signs of cancer. Early detection not only saves lives but also reduces the suffering caused by advanced cancer, which often spreads (metastasizes) to other parts of the body.

Prevention: A Healthy Lifestyle

In addition to screening, adopting a healthier lifestyle can also significantly reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. Here are some tips:

Eat Less, Walk More: Incorporating regular physical activity and reducing your calorie intake can help maintain a healthy weight.
Quit Smoking: This can lower your risk for many types of cancers, including colorectal cancer.
Limit Red Meat and Alcohol Consumption: Opt for a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Reducing alcohol consumption can also prevent alcoholic hepatitis and related liver damage from alcohol.
Manage Diabetes and Other Conditions: If you have diabetes or other chronic conditions, ensure they are well controlled.
Be Aware of Your Family History: If you have a family history of cancer, take proactive measures, including early and regular screenings.

Conclusion: Early Action Saves Lives

The biggest takeaway from today’s discussion is the importance of early screening, particularly from the age of 40 onwards. With a one-time colonoscopy, many lives could be saved by catching colorectal cancer before it progresses. It is also essential to be mindful of potential symptoms after procedures like endoscopy and to manage risks such as peg tube infection symptoms.

We encourage you to spread this message, adopt a healthy lifestyle, and consult your local healthcare experts for screening and diagnosis.