Cases of this cancer remained stable among older people, but case rates rose among younger people under 50.
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Lifestyle
Health
5 hours ago
BY Rafael Damas
Colorectal cancer is a condition that develops in the colon or rectum, which are parts of the large intestine. This type of cancer usually develops slowly over several years, and is increasingly affecting people under the age of 50. “I am receiving more and more young patients diagnosed with bowel cancer in the office, it is worrying.” reports Dr. Lucas Nacif, Gastrointestinal Surgeon, and full member of the Brazilian College of Digestive Surgery (CBCD) who highlights “Intestine cancer is often discovered in more advanced stages, due to some subtle symptoms in the initial stage of the disease”.
A report released by the American Cancer Society in January indicates a rapid increase in the incidence of colorectal cancer among people in their 20s, 30s and 40s. In Brazil, this cancer ranks second in incidence and third in mortality.
Affecting both anonymous and famous people, the disease requires care and rapid intervention. Part of this statistic is Preta Gil, today cured after reconstruction surgery on her intestinal tract and reversal of the ilestomy, the singer Simony, who underwent long treatment and King Pelé (in memory) also faced colorectal cancer.
What is bowel cancer
According to Nacif, this type of cancer generally originates from abnormal growths of cells evolving into small lesions called adenomatous polyps that can become cancerous over time. “Colorectal cancer can develop for many years without causing visible symptoms. However, as the cancer grows, signs and symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, weakness and unexplained weight loss may occur”, summarizes the gastrointestinal surgeon.
The doctor also clarifies that the stages of bowel cancer range from stage I, when the cancer has invaded the entire bowel wall, but not through it, to stage IV, when the cancer has spread to distant organs, such as the liver or the lungs.
Causes
According to the gastrointestinal surgeon, a diet low in fruits, vegetables and lean meats, combined with excessive consumption of red and/or processed meats, can increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Furthermore, habits such as excessive alcohol consumption, smoking and regular use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications are also associated with a greater risk of this disease.
However, Dr. Nacif emphasizes that, although several factors can increase the likelihood of developing the disease, its specific causes are not yet fully understood. He points out that tumors in the region generally develop from genetic mutations that occur in polyps, benign lesions of the intestine.
How the diagnosis is made
“Early diagnosis of the disease can be achieved by carrying out a thorough investigation, using clinical, laboratory, endoscopic or radiological examinations. In the specific case of colorectal cancer, screening can be conducted through two main tests: testing for occult blood in feces and endoscopies (colonoscopy or rectosigmoidoscopy)”, explains the doctor.
Is bowel cancer curable? What is the treatment?
According to Nacif, early identification of the tumor is essential, as it considerably increases the effectiveness of treatment, achieving cure rates above 90%. “Therefore, one should never neglect suspicious signs, but rather seek specialized medical evaluation”, she summarizes.
As for treatment, the doctor explains that it varies according to the stage of the tumor. Surgery is usually performed to remove the parts of the intestine affected by the cancer. In more advanced stages, chemotherapy and radiotherapy may be necessary. In situations where the cancer is advancing and growing rapidly, both radiotherapy and chemotherapy can be used to control tumor growth.
Finally, Lucas Nacif highlights the importance of periodic exams, especially in people who have already had cases of incidence in the family (due to heredity) and after the age of 40 for healthy people. “Prevention will always be the best medicine, combined with a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle with physical activity.”
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