When should you get tested for colon cancer?

He colon cancer It is one of those that causes the highest number of deaths in the world, according to estimates by the World Health Organization (WHO). Hence the importance of When to start testing for early diagnosis.

“Colorectal cancer is cancer that starts in the large intestine (colon) or rectum (end of the colon),” he specifies. Medline Plusthe United States National Library of Medicine.

And it lists other types of cancer that can affect the colon, such as lymphomaTHE carcinoid tumors, He melanoma and the sarcomas.

Early diagnosis is essential, as most patients are diagnosed when the cancer is still located in the colon or rectum. After surgical removal, they may be treated with chemotherapy to prevent relapse.

Scientists at Harvard University suggest sticking to the recommendations of the 2018 Harvard University report World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) and the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR).

In this document, particular reference is made to the promotion of a lifestyle which consists of a model of healthy diet, physical activity and weight control.

What are the early symptoms of colon cancer?

Many people with colon cancer initially have no symptoms. But when they appear, they likely depend on the size of the cancer and its location in the large intestine, the site points out. Mayo Clinica non-profit organization dedicated to clinical practice, training and research.

And list a few to keep in mind:

• Changes in bowel habits, such as more frequent diarrhea or constipation.

• Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool.

• Discomfort in the abdominal area, such as cramps, gas, or pain.

• Sensation that the intestine does not empty completely during defecation.

• Weakness or tiredness.

• Unintentional weight loss.

When to get screened for colon cancer

He American College of Physicians (ACP) released updated guidance for colon cancer screening in August 2023 that differs from those of other major organizations, including recommendations from the American Cancer Society (ACS) and the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF).

First, it’s worth clarifying that this advice only applies to people at average risk with no family history of colon cancer.

If you have a family history or other health problems put you at higher than average risk, it is It is important to talk to your doctor about the diagnosis and the steps to take.

The main point of disagreement is the age at which people should start undergoing screening.

The new ACP guide says so 50 yearswhile the other two organizations recommend 45 years. This younger age is supported by the US Multisociety Working Group on Colorectal Cancer, the publication of Harvard Medical School.

It is also supported by many doctors, including , which helps explain the key facts below.

Why do they recommend having a colonoscopy years in advance?

“We are faced with one alarming and inexplicable increase in the incidence of colon cancer in people under 50 years of age,” says Dr. Andrew T. Chan, professor at Harvard Medical School, gastroenterologist and director of epidemiology at the Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center.

Overall, colon cancer deaths decreased by 2% per year between 2011 and 2020. While this is not the case among people under 50, they are increasing.

In that age group, deaths from colon cancer grew between 0.5% and 3% during the same period. according to statistics published last year.

“I believe that promoting early diagnosis will help curb the increase in early-onset cases, “At least among people over the age of 40.”Chan ruling.

He adds, “We also noted that early colonoscopies may be associated with a lower incidence of colon cancer even later in life.”