Four top tips to prevent colorectal cancer

MANILA, Philippines - Colorectal cancer, also known as cancer of the colon or rectum, is any type of benign or malignant tumor that grows in the inner wall of the large intestine. It is the third most common cancer in the world. It is also the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the Philippines, with at least 8,000 new cases diagnosed annually.

However, colorectal cancer is highly preventable when diagnosed early. “Medical tests, like colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy, can detect precancerous polyps, which develop into cancer when not removed. Treatments, like chemotherapy, can remove these polyps,” says MediCard president Dr. Nicky Montoya.

MediCard joins the campaign to boost public understanding of the disease and provides tips for its prevention:

1. Listen to your body. There are symptoms that indicate the presence of colorectal cancer. The most common are the changes in bowel habit and in the consistency of stools. Some also experience the feeling of fullness even when not eating, abdominal pain, fatigue, vomiting, and rapid weight loss. Rectal bleeding and the presence of blood in stools may also be a sign of the disease.

However, most of these conditions can also be caused by other illnesses. Thus, it is best to see a doctor for the right diagnosis, especially if the symptoms persist.

2. Get screened. Several processes are used to look for polyps and cancercerous cells, such as sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, barium enema, CT colonography, and biopsy. There are also tests that examine stools for cancer signs, like fecal occult blood tests, fecal immunochemical test, and stool DNA tests.

Regular screening starts at age 50 when the risk for the disease increases. However, examination may be required earlier if a patient has a history of abdominal and bowel diseases and has close relatives who are diagnosed with colon or rectal cancer.

3. Undergo treatments. Action must be sought immediately once a patient is diagnosed with colorectal cancer or the presence of precancerous polyps. Depending on the stage and severity of the disease, treatments may include one or a combination of the following processes: polypectomy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgery.

It is best to consult with doctors for the right options as some may have side effects. The chance of recovery from the disease is also largely dependent on the stage of the cancer and the patient’s overall health.

4. Live a healthy lifestyle. While medicine cannot yet explain why colorectal cancer develops in some people and not in others, it has identified the risk factors for the disease. These include old age, history of cancer, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, high alcohol consumption, and a diet that is very high in calories, saturated fats, and animal protein. Some of these conditions cannot be changed, like old age and genetics, but others can be modified through lifestyle change. Awareness of the disease also prolongs life because it encourages people to take action.

The first step to colorectal cancer responsiveness is to undergo regular colon and rectal cancer screenings, especially for those with high-risk factor levels. Dr. Montoya stresses, “Lack of time and financial resources can hinder some from undergoing the exams. However, these excuses are insignificant compared to the real reason for getting screened — to save life.”

Visit MediCard Lifestyle Center and take advantage of reasonable colonoscopy and other medical services for you and your family. For more information, log on to www.medicardphils.com.