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What is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month? Why We Need To Pay Attention?

Introduction

Standing among the top 5 most frequent cases reported, colorectal cancer is third-common cancer among men worldwide. An estimated number of approximately 4.4% of men (1 in 23) and 4.1% of women (1 in 25) may be diagnosed with colorectal cancer in their lifetime.

Colorectal cancer also called colon cancer and bowel cancer is cancer that affects the colon, rectum and large intestine. The name of the disease varies based on where the cancer cells are present. 

The month of March is observed as colon and rectal cancer awareness month. Let us find out more about this common threat.

Causes and Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer

Colon cancer usually begins as non-cancerous clumps of cells called polyps that may form inside the colon. If not treated, these polyps can grow to be cancerous as time passes.

Initially, polyps are small and rarely produce symptoms. This is why regular screening tests are recommended by doctors to help prevent colon cancer. Polyps can be identified and removed before they turn cancerous. Why cancer happens is not yet known. 

In its early stages, it is difficult to identify colorectal cancer symptoms. Some colorectal cancers may be present without any symptoms.

This is why regular colorectal screenings are important to detect problems early. The best procedure to identify colon cancer symptoms is a colonoscopy. Other options include CT colon, Biopsy and many others.

Among the effects it has on the body, colon cancer causes a change in bowel habits. Colorectal cancer may cause

The most noticeable of all colon cancer symptoms is blood in the stools. However, blood in the stool may be indications of other diseases as well.

Other colorectal cancer symptoms include-

Sometimes colorectal cancer causes vomiting and abdominal or pelvic pain as well.

Who is at risk?

Men and women both are equally at risk for colorectal cancer. Colon cancer is most common among middle-aged people but may also affect teenagers. 

Colorectal cancer risk factors may include symptoms such as:

What is the cure?

Surgical Intervention: Surgery is the most common treatment for colorectal cancer at any stage. If the cancer is found at a very early stage, it can be removed with surgery. Depending on the age and health of the patient, a laparoscopic colectomy can be done. This allows early recovery and avoids big incisions. Once the surgery is concluded, chemotherapy follows with radiation and (or) targeted drug therapy as advised by the doctor. 

Will it come back after treatment?

In most cases, colorectal cancer does not recur after surgery. However, in about 35% to 40% of people, it might recur within 3-5 years of treatment. Often when cancer recurs, it could be in the colon or rectum. However, it could also be in other parts of the body, such as the liver and lungs.

Conclusion: Why colorectal cancer needs to be discussed?

Colorectal Cancer is an actual and imminent threat that could affect anyone. Colon cancer is still not a widely discussed topic. This makes those who are suffering from colon cancer suppress themselves. It keeps them from going to a hospital out of shame. Moreover, not being aware of the threat, people do not go in for screening that could save their lives. Being a very real threat, this topic deserves its due attention. The more we talk about colorectal cancer, the easier it is for people to be aware and seek treatment. It is important to move past taboos and focus on what betters our health.

Also Read: Is Bowel Leakage a Sign of Cancer? Unpacking Oncology-Related Symptoms

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month-Diet That Can Help You Prevent Colorectal Cancer

Do you find yourself wondering whether your meals are healthy enough? Did you know that certain types of foods can increase inflammation in your gut and make you vulnerable to increased risk of Colorectal Cancer? Which food groups are these – carbohydrates, fats or protein? We’ve got you all the answers in a nifty infographic that simplifies it all. Check it out below and share it with your loved ones.

Also Read: Is Bowel Leakage a Sign of Cancer? Unpacking Oncology-Related Symptoms

Conclusion

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer worldwide. Various known and unknown risk factors may influence the probability of a person getting diagnosed with cancer. While some factors are not in our control, a healthy diet and lifestyle is something that can always benefit our health and reduce the chances of several diseases. You must maintain a healthy lifestyle along with eating healthy and also learn to manage stress to reduce the risk of this type of cancer. Exercise regularly, take control of your body weight, quit smoking and stay in touch with your health care provider about when you need screening and which tests must be done.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

#WorldCancerDay: 7 Cancer Myths Debunked!

The very mention of cancer causes people to break out cold sweat, suffer palpitations and feel faint. Yes, Cancer has that effect on people.  Cancer myths are in abundance even though there is a lot of awareness about this disease and this causes people to panic and think it is the end of the world. Unfortunately, thanks to half-baked knowledge and wrong information cropping up randomly, people unnecessarily worry about Cancer as a disease. This also causes people to respond and react wrongly to the diagnosis of cancer.Therefore, to clear the confusion, we are debunking the most common cancer myths. They are:MYTH #1 Cancer = death sentenceYes, people do die of cancer. But 1/3rd of all cancers can be cured if they are detected and diagnosed and then treated early on. This is the very reason why doctors and healthcare professionals constantly push their patients, friends and family members for regular health check-ups. About nine of ten people who suffer from different types of cancer such as prostate, thyroid and breast cancer can survive for a minimum of five years after their disease is diagnosed. Research and constant medical advancement mean that more and more people who are suffering from cancer, even at an advanced stage, can live longer lives.MYTH #2 It is contagiousCancer is anything but infectious! One cannot acquire the disease if they touch someone who has cancer or are present in the same room. So, no, it is not a communicable disease. In very rare cases, when someone has had a tissue or an organ transplant, they can develop cancer if the donor had cancer. Also, while it is not communicable, viruses like Hepatitis B or C that spreads through sexual intercourse or contaminated needles can increase one’s chances of liver cancer. Also, the HPV or Human papillomavirus which is an STD can increase one’s risk of cervical cancer.MYTH #3 Sugar boosts cancer growthIt is a fact that cancer cells do absorb more sugars than any healthy cells. However, no scientific evidence suggests that sugary foods or a high intake of sugar will boost cancer in one’s body. People who have high sugar intake are at risk of diabetes as they gain excessive weight. Those who are obese and have diabetes, however, are at a higher risk of developing cancer.MYTH #4 Negative thoughts and attitude will cause cancerNegativity is never a good thing, but it won’t cause cancer. No scientific evidence points to the fact that an adverse opinion or evil thoughts can cause death by cancer. Cancer is a deadly disease and people who suffer from cancer experience a gamut of emotion. They feel angry, sad, confused, frightened and even hopeless. However, a positive attitude may help them overcome stress during treatment.MYTH #5 A tumour biopsy or surgery for cancer removal will spread the diseaseThere is a possibility that cancer may have spread, but the chances of this occurring due to a biopsy or surgery is very very low. Cancer surgeons are highly meticulous and with advanced procedures, they take all necessary steps.MYTH #6 Cancer is most definitely hereditary!Yes, cancer can be inherited, but the chances are about 5-10% only because of genetic mutations. If one has a strong family history of cancer, then they are at a higher risk of developing the disease. But this doesn’t mean that they will get cancer at some point in time in their lives. However, factors like exposure to radiation, ageing and smoking play a significant role.MYTH #7 No family history of cancer so no risk of cancerAt least 2 in 5 people will develop cancer in their life. It is caused by genetic mutations within the cells. One may have inherited these mutated genes from parents or earlier generation. However, factors like smoking, exposure to radiation and viruses also play an essential role in developing cancer.Also Read: Is Bowel Leakage a Sign of Cancer? Unpacking Oncology-Related SymptomsDisclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.