Raising awareness to a common, potentially deadly but preventable condition
Today, let’s talk about a type of cancer that tragically claimed the life of beloved Marvel actor Chadwick Boseman at just 43 years old: colorectal cancer.
Colorectal cancer occurs when abnormal growths develop in the colon or rectum. These growths, or tumors, can spread (metastasize) to other organs, such as the liver. When classified as cancer, it means the tumor’s growth is no longer regulated by the body and continues to expand uncontrollably beyond its original site.
In colorectal cancer, tumors can grow to the point of causing blockages and bleeding. As the disease progresses, cancerous cells may travel through the bloodstream and spread to other organs.
In Singapore, colorectal cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among men and ranks as the second most common cancer among women.
In Singapore, colorectal cancer is the most common diagnosed cancer among men and the 2nd most diagnosed cancer among women in Singapore.
Understanding Colorectal Cancer: The Importance of Early Detection
Colorectal cancer is a silent yet dangerous disease that often begins with symptoms that seem mundane or easy to dismiss. These symptoms—such as changes in bowel habits, abdominal discomfort, or unexplained fatigue—can easily be mistaken for common ailments like indigestion or stress-related issues. However, what lies beneath these ordinary signs could be the early stages of a life-threatening condition.
The Origin of Colorectal Cancer: The Role of Polyps
Approximately 90% of colorectal cancer cases begin as small, fleshy growths in the colon or rectum, known as colon polyps. These polyps are often non-cancerous initially, but some can develop into cancer over time. The process is slow, sometimes taking years, which creates a critical window for intervention if detected early.
Unfortunately, polyps rarely cause noticeable symptoms. They can grow silently until they develop into more serious conditions. This underscores the importance of regular screenings, especially for individuals over 50 or those with a family history of colorectal cancer.
Why Early Detection is Crucial
Colorectal cancer is highly treatable when caught in its early stages. In fact, removing polyps before they become cancerous can prevent the disease entirely. Regular screenings, such as colonoscopies, are effective in identifying and removing polyps before they pose a serious threat.
Failing to address symptoms or neglecting regular check-ups can allow cancer to grow and spread, reducing the likelihood of successful treatment. In its advanced stages, colorectal cancer is not only more challenging to treat but can also metastasize to other organs, significantly impacting a person’s quality of life and survival.
Taking Proactive Steps
To safeguard against colorectal cancer, it’s essential to:
Pay attention to symptoms: While they may seem minor, symptoms like rectal bleeding, changes in stool consistency, or persistent abdominal pain should never be ignored.
Schedule regular screenings: Even if you feel perfectly healthy, screenings are vital. Colonoscopies, stool tests, and other diagnostic tools can detect polyps or cancer in its earliest stages.
Adopt a healthy lifestyle: A diet rich in fiber, regular exercise, and avoiding excessive alcohol and tobacco use can lower the risk of developing polyps or cancer.
Understanding Colon Polyps: A Key to Preventing Colorectal Cancer
Colon polyps are small clusters of cells that form on the inner lining of the colon. While the majority of these growths are benign and harmless, some carry the potential to develop into colon cancer over time. When colon cancer is detected in its later stages, it can become life-threatening, emphasizing the importance of early identification and removal of polyps.
What Are Colon Polyps?
Colon polyps vary in size and shape, with some appearing flat and others resembling small bumps or stalks. Although most remain non-cancerous throughout a person’s life, certain types, such as adenomatous polyps, have a higher likelihood of becoming malignant. This gradual transformation highlights why regular screenings, such as colonoscopies, are vital in detecting and managing polyps before they progress into something more serious.
Who is at Risk?
Colon polyps can affect anyone, but certain factors increase the likelihood of developing them. These include:
Age: The risk of polyps increases significantly after the age of 50.
Lifestyle factors: Being overweight, leading a sedentary lifestyle, or smoking raises your risk.
Family or personal history: Individuals with a personal or family history of colon polyps or colorectal cancer are more prone to developing polyps themselves.
Dietary habits: Consuming a diet low in fiber and high in fat can also contribute to the development of polyps.
Understanding these risk factors is the first step toward proactive prevention.
The Importance of Early Detection
The good news is that most colon polyps can be detected and removed during routine screening procedures. Removing polyps early not only prevents their progression to cancer but also offers peace of mind. Regular screenings, such as colonoscopies or stool tests, are recommended for those over 50 and for individuals at higher risk.
Preventive Measures
In addition to regular screenings, there are steps you can take to lower your risk of developing colon polyps:
Maintain a healthy diet: Focus on foods high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, while minimizing processed and fatty foods.
Stay active: Regular physical activity can help regulate your weight and reduce your risk.
Quit smoking: Tobacco use is a significant risk factor for many cancers, including colorectal cancer.
Limit alcohol intake: Moderation is key when it comes to alcohol consumption.
Take Charge of Your Health
Colon polyps may seem insignificant due to their small size and often asymptomatic nature, but they play a critical role in the development of colorectal cancer. By understanding the risks and taking preventive steps, you can reduce your chances of developing these growths. Regular check-ups, healthy lifestyle choices, and awareness of your family history are essential in staying one step ahead.
Don’t wait for symptoms to appear—be proactive about your health. Early action can save lives.
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What happens during a screening?
A Health screening called colonoscopy is used to check your colon. Any polyps found during the screening will be removed via a painless procedure. This will ensure that any risk of such polyps developing into cancer will drastically reduce.
Average risk patients with normal colonoscopy test results were 46 percent less likely to develop colon cancer and 88 percent less likely to die of colon cancer when screened at recommended ten-year intervals.
How we can assist you in Health Matters and checkups?
In Clinishield, your well-being is of utmost importance. We want to let users know about the importance of health and screening is an important step of prevention of adverse and serious medical conditions.
Clinishield is partnered with Healthcare Clinics to make screening and checks simply a click away. Our dedicated concierge will help with appointment bookings for a simply fuss free experience!