TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE ON THE PREVENTION OF NON-FAMILIAL (NON-HEREDITARY) COLORECTAL CANCER

More than 90% of those diagnosed with colorectal cancer cases are older than 50 years of age. The disease can develop in younger people, but its chances (like with other cancers) increases with age.

Screenings for colorectal cancer should start at the age of 50 years. Surveillance should start earlier, however, in high-risk individuals: those with a personal or familial history of colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis).

A diet high in fat, processed food and red meat increases the chance of colorectal cancer. On the other hand, a diet rich in vegetables, fruit and fibers protects against the disease. To keep a healthy diet and weight, and to exercise reduces your risk of colorectal cancer.

All of these factors contribute to the risk of colorectal cancer, although with varied influence. For example, to have a personal or familial history of colorectal adenomas (a benign tumor that often degenerates into colorectal cancer) is more dangerous than to be obese.

Most times, while the cancer is small, so only slightly larger than a polyp, the disease remains asymptomatic. This is the reason why regular colorectal cancer screenings are so important. However, at later stages there are signs that you should be alert for. Your doctor should always investigate symptoms, such as changes in bowel’s habits, unexplained weight loss or blood in the feces.

Polyps are abnormal, but usually benign (not malignant), growths on the colon or rectum’s internal wall. To have polyps is not synonym to have cancer. However, some polyps (those that we call adenomas) can degenerate into colorectal cancer, and that is the reason why all polyps should be removed.

Besides all treatments already available, colorectal cancer can be avoided by regular screenings by colonoscopy with removal of any polyp detected. Detection and removal of polyps prevents their potential degeneration into cancer. Individuals that follow the guidelines for colorectal cancer regular screenings have 80% less chance of developing the disease than those who do not.