bowel cancer also known as colorectal cancer affects the large intestine which is made up of colon and rectum. Lifestyle factors can play a big role in the development of bowel cancer. People who are obese or overweight or who have unhealthy lifestyle habits such as drinking, smoking and eating high-calorie foods have a higher risk of this cancer. Studies show that a person can reduce their risk of bowel cancer by keeping a healthy weight, exercising, eating healthy, and avoiding alcohol and tobacco. Recognizing early signs of bowel cancer can help improve survival rates. (Also read: Obesity increases colorectal cancer risk: Study)
What is bowel cancer?
Bowel cancer is a type of cancer that occurs due to the abnormal growth of cells in the lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. It is also known as colorectal cancer.
“It attacks the large intestine including the colon and rectum. This type of cancer can affect people of all ages. Early detection is the key to effective prevention and treatment. Therefore, everyone. Bowel cancer screening should be done before age 40,” Dr Balkishan Gupta, Director, Colorectal and Minimally Invasive Surgeon, Marengo Asia Hospital Faridabad told HT Digital.
Bowel cancer warning signs
Dr Gupta says a person needs to look out for changes in bowel habits or abdominal cramps, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue as all of these symptoms can indicate a problem.
“If you experience symptoms such as blood in your stools, changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or the feeling that you don’t go all the way), changes in bowel movements (such as thin stools), bloating, abdominal pain or cramps, anal or rectal pain, unexplained weight loss, extreme fatigue for no reason, anal or rectal tumor, blood in the urine or urinating frequently or during the night, changes urine discoloration (dark, rusty, or brown), you should see your doctor right away, says Dr. Gupta: “If these symptoms go unnoticed, they can get worse.”
Who is at risk for bowel cancer?
Gupta says the following people have a higher risk of colorectal cancer than others:
People with a family history of bowel cancer, an inherited bowel disease such as familial adenomatous polyposis, or hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer, also known as Lynch syndrome, are more likely to develop bowel cancer. .
People with long-term inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis or those with a history of developing noncancerous tumors (polyps or adenomas) are more likely to be affected by the life-threatening condition. This.
Factors such as obesity, smoking, a diet low in fiber and/or high intake of red and processed meat, and high alcohol consumption may increase the risk of bowel cancer.
Diagnosing bowel cancer
“To diagnose this condition, patients may be advised to have a physical exam, blood tests, fecal occult blood test (iFOBT), Colonoscopy, Colonoscopy,” says Dr. Flexible sigmoid colon, MRI, ST Scan and PET Scan.
Bowel cancer treatment
To reduce the risk of bowel cancer, a balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables is recommended. Avoid or limit your intake of red meat, limit your intake of processed meat, say no to smoking or drinking too much alcohol, exercise regularly, and maintain a healthy body weight.
