BOWEL CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

BOWEL CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

BY VAISHALI RAJA

Statistics show that cancer stands as one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Among the various types, bowel cancer is a very common type of cancer that harnesses drastic outcomes. The month of April, hence, advocates to spread awareness about bowel cancer to the population – to spread information on the signs, symptoms, and preventive measures.

A BRIEF LOOK ON BOWEL CANCER

Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, occurs in the large intestine (the colon) or the rectal region of the digestive system. The inner lining of the bowel may present with polyps, which later develop to affect the organ invasively. Age, family history, and past medical history denoting the presence of polyps are all risk factors that may potentially cause colorectal cancer in an individual.

The signs and symptoms presented by bowel cancer are non-specific. However, it is essential to get checked if the following symptoms persist as soon as possible:

1. Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation)
2. A feeling of incomplete emptying of the bowels
3. Blood in stool
4. Abdominal cramping
5. Anemia
6. Fatigue
7. Weight loss

With diagnosis at early stages, treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or surgery can help with a better prognosis of the individual. Colonoscopy biopsy acts as the confirmatory test to diagnose an individual with colorectal cancer. In cases of diagnosis at later stages, palliative care is provided to alleviate the symptoms and reduce the amount of pain.

SCREENING – A CRUCIAL TOOL

With the incidence of colorectal cancer being evident at later ages (from the age of 50), regular screening for the disease should be done once every two years with the help of a fecal occult blood test (FOBT).

This test can be of multiple types – immunochemical (iFOBT), guaiac (gFOBT), or other easily accessible agents such as a flushable reagent pad or tissue. Based on convenience, it can be prescribed to individuals to flag the presence of occult blood in stool (blood that is not visible to the naked eye). This measure can act as a preventive and diagnostic tool to reduce the number of individuals affected by colorectal cancer.

The statistical numbers of colorectal cancer showing its incidence, prevalence, and death rate are of great concern for the population. Hence, it is imperative to impart knowledge to people on the characteristics of the disease and adequate preventive methods, to ensure and build a healthier community together.