Breaking the Silence: The Importance of Colorectal Cancer Awareness

Colorectal cancer, encompassing both colon and rectal cancers, is a significant public health concern. As the third most common cancer worldwide, it accounts for approximately 10% of all cancer cases and is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. Despite its prevalence, many people remain unaware of the risks, symptoms, and the importance of early detection. This blog post delves into alarming statistics surrounding colorectal cancer and emphasizes the urgent need for increased awareness and research.

It's Time to Talk About It

In 2020 alone, over 1.9 million new cases of colorectal cancer were diagnosed worldwide. In the United States, approximately 152,810 people were expected to receive a diagnosis in 2024, with around 53,010 deaths attributed to the disease. These figures highlight the critical need for public awareness campaigns that educate individuals about risk factors and encourage regular screenings.

Common Symptoms to Watch For

1) Changes in Bowel Habits: Persistent diarrhea, constipation, or ribbon-like stools.

2) Blood in Stool: Rectal bleeding or dark-colored stools.

Abdominal Discomfort: Cramping, gas, or persistent pain.

4) General Health Issues: Unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or weakness.

5) Advanced Symptoms: Jaundice, difficulty breathing, or liver enlargement if cancer spreads.

Are You at Risk?

1) Age: The median age of diagnosis in the U.S. is 66 years, with about 78% of newly diagnosed patients aged 55 and older.

2) Lifestyle Choices: Factors such as diet, physical inactivity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption can increase risk.

3) Genetics: A family history of colorectal cancer or specific genetic conditions can also elevate risk levels.

Interestingly, in India, there is a concerning trend where a significant portion (around 33%) of colorectal cancer cases occur in individuals below 40 years old, indicating a need for heightened awareness among younger populations.

Early Detection Saves Lives

One of the most compelling reasons for increasing awareness is the potential for early detection to save lives. When colorectal cancer is detected at an early stage, the five-year relative survival rate is approximately 91.1%. However, this rate drops significantly as the cancer progresses. Unfortunately, many cases are diagnosed at advanced stages due to a lack of symptoms in the early phases, often leading to poorer outcomes.

It Could Affect You. Get Screened!!

Regular screening is crucial for preventing colorectal cancer or catching it in its earliest stages when treatment is most effective. Colonoscopies can identify precancerous polyps that can be removed before they develop into cancer. Yet, screening rates remain alarmingly low; only about 50% of individuals eligible for screenings have undergone them.

Several diets and dietary components have been identified as potentially lowering the risk of colorectal cancer:

Pesco-Vegetarian Diet: A study found that adopting a pesco-vegetarian diet, which includes fish and seafood in addition to plant-based foods, was associated with a 45% reduced risk of colorectal cancer compared to meat-eaters.

This diet is similar to the Mediterranean diet, emphasizing fresh fruits, vegetables, and fish high in omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce colorectal cancer risk by up to 43%.

Mediterranean Diet: This diet focuses on whole grains, beans, nuts, olive oil, and fish, providing a balanced intake of nutrients that support overall health and reduce cancer risk.

High-Fiber Diets: Diets rich in fiber from whole grains, fruits, and vegetables are associated with a lower risk of colorectal cancer. Fiber helps increase stool bulk, reduce transit time, and dilute carcinogenic substances in the bowel. A meta-analysis suggested a 10% reduction in risk for each additional 10 g/day intake of total dietary fiber.

Plant-Based Diets: Plant-based diets, which are moderate to low in red meat and processed foods, have been shown to reduce colorectal cancer risk. These diets emphasize a variety of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes.

Specific Foods: Beans and legumes provide protein, fiber, and essential vitamins while lowering cholesterol. Fresh fish, rich in omega-3, helps reduce inflammation. Nuts offer healthy fats and fiber, supporting overall gut health.

Conclusion:

Dr. M.G. Giriyappagoudar, stresses that colorectal cancer, though highly preventable and treatable in its early stages, continues to claim lives due to a lack of awareness and delayed diagnosis. “With colorectal cancer ranking among the leading causes of cancer-related deaths, we must take proactive steps in prevention, screening, and lifestyle modifications,” In India, where an alarming percentage of cases occur in younger populations, raising awareness among individuals under 40 is crucial. “This disease is no longer just an older person’s concern—it’s affecting younger individuals, making it even more critical to educate people about early signs and preventive measures,”. Colorectal cancer awareness is not just about statistics—it’s about saving lives. When detected early, the survival rate is over 91%, but if ignored, that number drops drastically.

DR. M G GIRIYAPPAGOUDAR

DMRT, MDRT (CMC Vellore, TN)

Consultant Radiation Oncologist, Hubli