March is observed as the month for colorectal cancer awareness (CRC) to make men and women aware that colorectal cancer can happen to both, and symptoms are often difficult to identify in the early stages. This makes it all the more important for individuals to learn about the prevention, management and treatment options.
Symptoms of colorectal cancer: Since CRC symptoms are difficult to identify, most cases tend not to be diagnosed, so it requires timely examination and diagnosis. Constipation, diarrhea, changes in stool color, blood in the stool, bleeding from the rectum, excessive gas, abdominal cramps and abdominal pain may be few of the indicators.
Treatment option available: In recent times, new diagnosis and treatment options are in place. With the approach of personalized medicine moving away from holistic drugs, treatment is now focused on patient well-being and faster recovery with multimodality approaches such as surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. But what one must remember is that treatment largely depends on the specific situation, including the location of the cancer, its stage and other health problems.
Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) and colonoscopy are two methods to examine. If it is diagnosed at an early stage, the attending physician may remove the tumor completely during a colonoscopy. In advanced stage of CRC, partial colectomy and ostomy are preferred forms for surgery which. After the operation is completed, chemotherapy, radiation, effective drug therapy and immunotherapy are followed. As older people develop colorectal cancer, palliative care is also suggested as a treatment. When palliative care is used in conjunction with all the other appropriate treatments, patients can feel better and live longer. Palliative care is offered along with curative or other treatments that the patient may receive. It focuses on relieving pain and other symptoms of a serious illness.
Prevention of colorectal cancer: CRC occurs in older adults; sixty years and older. In recent years, however, there has been an increase in younger people. This is largely due to poor lifestyle, dietary habits, obesity and less physical activity.
Get an Inquiry: The most effective way to reduce your risk of colorectal cancer is to be screened regularly at age 45. Colorectal cancer begins as cancerous polyps (abnormal growth) in the colon or rectum. Screening helps to find the cancerous tumor in its early stages, and in this way the condition can be better managed.
Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake: smoking can increase the risk of colorectal cancer. It can be a challenge to quit smoking altogether so you can join programs and groups that help quit smoking.
Heavy alcohol use can increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Doctors recommend drinking only moderate alcohol.
Eat a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet – one that is rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains and few red and processed meats – can reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer. A high intake of red and processed meat has been shown to increase the risk of colorectal cancer.
Exercise regularly: An active lifestyle has been linked to a reduced risk of colorectal cancer. Talk to your doctor about an exercise program that is right for you.
Maintain a healthy body weight: Being overweight can increase the risk of colorectal cancer. If you eat healthy and exercise regularly, you can maintain a healthy body weight.
Written by dr. Sandeep Batra, medical oncologist, senior consultant, MBBS, managing director, DNB at Max Super Specialty Hospital, New Delhi