Colon and stomach cancer are among the most common and deadly cancers in the country, which underscores the importance of prevention.
In Brazil, the most common malignant tumor is non-melanoma skin cancer, followed by breast and prostate cancer. Then come colon, lung and stomach cancer, two of which affect the digestive system and have a high mortality rate.
According to the Ministry of Health, colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in the world. Stomach cancer is the fifth most deadly cancer in the country.
Fortunately, both colorectal and stomach cancers can be diagnosed quickly. This, combined with proper treatment, significantly increases the chances of recovery.
How to Prevent Colon and Stomach Cancer
These types of cancer can often initially be completely asymptomatic, meaning that the patient has no specific symptoms that indicate the development of the disease.
Typically, in both cases, when symptoms appear, more advanced tumors are often observed, which ends up reducing the prospects of an effective cure. Hence the importance of prevention, especially with regard to healthy lifestyles and routine examinations.
In case of stomach cancer it is essential to avoid excessive consumption of alcohol, cigarettes and salt. Also, perform queries periodic assessments to evaluate the need for digestive endoscopy.
For colorectal cancer, it is essential to include colonoscopy (the main preventive examination) in the routine. It allows not only direct visualization of suspicious lesions, but also the performance of biopsies and removal of lesions in the early stages.
“The guidelines recommend that this test be performed starting at age 45, or 10 years earlier than the age of a first-degree relative diagnosed with colorectal cancer. For example, if a parent was diagnosed with colorectal cancer at age 52, their children should have a colonoscopy at age 42,” explains digestive surgeon André Augusto Pinto.
According to Dr. Álvaro Faria, general and digestive surgeon, “in both cases, treatments can range from the need for surgery to a combination of chemotherapy or radiotherapy, being individualized depending on the type and stage of the cancer.” In short, when diagnosed early, the chances of a curative treatment are significantly greater, thus highlighting the importance of prevention.
Source: Terra
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.
