Colorectal cancer: know the main symptoms and how to avoid it

Blue March is the awareness campaign on the risks associated with the disease

Colorectal cancer (CRC) affects the large intestine or rectum and is one of the most common malignancies worldwide. In Brazil, it is the third most common type of cancer in women and men.

This month, the Blue March, is known as the period of awareness for this type of cancer and institutions such as the Brazilian Society of Digestive Endoscopy (Sobed) warn about the disease, its symptoms and how to prevent it.

People at highest risk of developing colorectal cancer are those who have family members with the disease, those with unhealthy lifestyle habits, and men and women over the age of 45.

What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer?

According to the National Cancer Institute (Inca), the risk of contracting the disease is estimated at 19.64 new cases per 100,000 men and 19.03 per 100,000 women.

Therefore, it is extremely important to keep your tests up to date and pay attention to the following symptoms:

• blood in the stool;
• change in bowel habits with diarrhea, constipation or alternation between diarrhea and constipation;
• abdominal pain, with colic and weight loss without known cause.

How to prevent yourself?

To avoid the risk of colorectal cancer, a healthy lifestyle is recommended with good practices such as:

• Avoid smoking and the use of alcoholic beverages;
• Do physical activity regularly;
• Have a diet rich in fiber and free of ultra-processed foods and sugars, with a reduced intake of red meat;
• Avoid obesity and overweight;
• Keep up to date with medical appointments;
• Carry out screening starting at age 45, which looks for a disease in people who have no symptoms. Colonoscopy facilitates diagnosis and removes lesions that precede cancer, which is why it is considered a preventive test.

Is there a cure?

YES! Colorectal cancer is curable and the earlier treatment is started, the better the chance of recovery. This is because the odds are directly related to the stage of the cancer at the time of diagnosis. This probability can vary from 10 to 95%.

After treatment, rigorous monitoring is done with consultations and tests to confirm whether the cancer has returned or not. Monitoring possible relapses (recurrences) is necessary early. Following your doctor’s advice for the best treatment is essential!

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.