Colon Cancer Screening
In the last 30 years, the incidence of colorectal
cancer (CRC) has more than doubled [3].
In both men and women it is the second most common cancer,
most prevalent new cancer for the overall population, and
the second leading cause of cancer death. Approximately
1 in 5 Australians will be diagnosed with CRC in their lifetime
[1], most commonly in individuals 50 years
of age or older.
This form of cancer most commonly develops
as a result of benign polyps which occur on the bowel wall.
These polyps may eventually increase in size and result
in cancer. Polyps can develop as a result of an unbalanced
diet, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, lack of exercise,
and obesity [2]. Those at risk of developing
this type of cancer include individuals with family history
of CRC and/or polyps, as well as personal history of Ulcerative
Colitis, colon polyps, and other types of cancer. In 2000,
CRC resulted in 1579 deaths in NSW with 4185 newly diagnosed
cases [3].
The most commonly associated symptoms are
rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, weight loss and changes
in bowel habits. However, one cannot rely on these symptoms
as a means to diagnosing CRC as they are also indicative
of several other conditions. In addition, many polyps and
early cancers do not produce symptoms at all.
The good news is that CRC is preventable and
in some cases curable provided it is detected at an early
stage. One of the best screening methods in use today is
called “colonoscopy.” This procedure enables the physician
to visualise the large intestine, determine the presence
of polyps and/or other abnormalities, and if necessary,
remove them.
If you are 50 years of age or older, or have
a family history of cancer or polyps, please contact your
local doctor to obtain a referral to CDD for colon cancer
screening.
Early detection and treatment of cancer is
vital.
|
