The lifestyle changes are crucial in prevention, according to the expert
The condition obtained importance after the diagnosis of Preta Gil, who died at the age of 50 after the battle against the disease
The number of colon cancer cases grew in young people. According to the data of the American Cancer Society1Since the 90s, the incidence rate of the disease in people between 20 and 39 years increase between 1 and 2% every year. In Brazil, this type of tumor, characterized by development in the intestine, is the third most popular type of cancer and over 45 thousand diagnostics have been estimated for the period between 2023 and 2025, according to Brazilian Cancerology Journal2.
According to the National Cancer Institute (Inca)3Early diagnosis promotes less invasive treatments, as well as increasing the quality of life and survival of the patient. When detected in the early stages, the tumor is curable and in most cases it can be treated. For possible, it is necessary to pay attention to possible symptoms and risk factors.
Dr. Thiago Kaique, clinical oncologist at the Mater of the Health Network, spoke exclusively with Malu and clarified the main doubts about the disease. Check!
How do you define the colon cancer -retto?
“Colon -retto carcinoma is a malignant tumor that develops in the large (colon) intestine or in the rectum, from genetic changes that lead to uncontrolled growth of intestinal mucosa cells. In most cases, it derives from adenomo polyps – benign lesions on the wall of the intestine that can be changed and evolve into cancer.”
What are the first symptoms of the disease?
“In the early stages, colon -terrible cancer can be silent. When they appear, the most common symptoms include: blood in the feces (living or dark red); alteration of intestinal habit (diarrhea or persistent constipation); sensation of incomplete evacuation; abdominal pain or discomfort; loss of illegal weight and fatigue.”
Are the symptoms intensify over time? New?
“Yes. With the progression of the disease, the symptoms become more evident and frequent. Signs of intestinal obstruction may arise (abdominal distension, intense pain, vomiting), anemia due to the loss of chronic blood in the stool and a significant weight loss.”
How is it possible to differentiate symptoms from other intestinal conditions?
“Diagnostic confirmation is possible only with complementary tests. Many diseases such as hemorrhoids, irritable intestine syndrome or diverticulitis can have similar symptoms. Colonoscopy is the standard gold exam as it allows you to directly view the interior of the colon, detect polyps and perform biopsies for analysis.”
What is due to the increase in the number of cases of the disease in youth?
“Several studies indicate factors related to modern lifestyle, such as: poor fiber diet rich in ultra elaborate and red meat; sedentary lifestyle; obesity; excessive alcohol and tobacco.
What are the risk factors?
- Age (higher risk after 50 years, although it increases in young people);
- Family history of Colon -Retto or Polyps cancer; Inflammatory intestinal diseases (such as ulcerative retocalitis and Crohn’s disease);
- Inappropriate lifestyle (physical inactivity, obesity, fat and fiber diet);
- Consumption of alcohol and tobacco.
When do you recommend going to the doctor and what medical specialty should it be consulted?
“Anyone who has blood in the stool, the persistent alteration of intestinal habit or the inexplicable abdominal pain should request medical care. The gastroenterologist is the expert for initial investigations and can refer to the oncologist in the event of confirmation of the diagnosis.”
How does the treatment take place?
“The treatment depends on the stage of the disease and usually combines surgery for the removal of the tumor and part of the intestine concerned, chemotherapy, mainly indicated in cases with risk of metastases, radiotherapy, common in rectum cancers, target therapies and immunotherapy, in selected cases, in particular metastatic diseases.”
Is it possible to prevent the disease?
“Yes, most cases can be prevented with early life lifestyle and monitoring changes: colonoscopy for 45 years (or before, if there is a family history), with the removal of polyps; healthy diet, rich in fiber, fruit, vegetables and integral grains; regular physical activity; weight control; weight control, reduction of the alcohol and abandonment of smoke.”
References:
1 – What is colon cancer -Retto? American Cancer Society, January 29, 2024 Access to: 29/07/2025.
2 – Santos, M. De O.; Lima, FC of S. de; Martins, LFL; Oliveira, JFP; Almeida, lm de; Cancela, M. De C. Estimation of the incidence of cancer in Brazil, 2023-2025. Brasiliano Journal of Cancerology, [S. l.]v. 69, n. 1, p. E-213700, 2023. Doi: 10.32635/2176-9745.rbc.2023v69n1.3700. Available on: https://rbc.ing.gov.br/index.php/revista/article/View/3700. Access to: 29/07/2025.
3 – Lestoza, Larissa. Colon -receptor cancer grows among young people and lights they feel for prevention in the DF. Federal District Health Secretariat, 23 Jul. 2025.
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.
