In today’s fast-paced lifestyle, coupled with poor habits, intestinal diseases are increasingly affecting younger individuals, particularly with the rising incidence of colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer, which includes both rectal and colon cancer, is one of the most common malignant tumors in the digestive system. The large intestine is the largest part of the human digestive system, with the colon and rectum being its main components. Colorectal cancer often exhibits subtle symptoms in its early stages, making it easy to overlook without sufficient vigilance.
The exact causes of colorectal cancer remain unclear, but evidence suggests that environmental factors, dietary habits, and genetics may contribute to its development.
Higher Risk After 50
Dr. Ina Shaliny A/P Duraisamy, a clinical oncology consultant at Sri Kota Specialist Medical Centre, explains that the colon and rectum make up the large intestine, and cancers occurring in these areas are collectively referred to as colorectal cancer. Colon cancer occurs in the upper part of the large intestine, while rectal cancer occurs in the lower part. The primary difference lies in their location.
She notes that colorectal cancer is more common among older adults, particularly those over 50. However, there has been a recent trend of younger patients, possibly due to genetic factors, unhealthy lifestyles (such as high-fat diets, lack of exercise, obesity), and inflammatory bowel disease.
Colorectal cancer is the most common cancer among men in Malaysia and the second most common among women, following breast cancer. Risk factors for colorectal cancer include genetics, a preference for high-fat and low-fiber diets, a history of colorectal polyps, or ulcerative colitis.
Dr. Ina emphasizes that maintaining a healthy lifestyle and undergoing regular colorectal screenings can significantly reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer. A balanced diet, moderate exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding obesity, and refraining from smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are all effective preventive measures.
Early Screening is Key
Dr. Ina points out that most rectal cancers can be preliminarily diagnosed based on medical history, physical examinations, and digital rectal exams. Regular colonoscopies or fecal occult blood tests can aid in early detection and treatment.
“The best approach is to undergo annual screenings. The medical community generally recommends routine colorectal cancer screenings, such as colonoscopies, for individuals over 50, as early detection aids in prevention and effective treatment. Younger individuals with a family history or known genetic risk factors (such as familial adenomatous polyposis or Lynch syndrome) should also consider early screening and monitoring.”
Early Symptoms Are Not Obvious
In the early stages, colorectal cancer may not present obvious symptoms, as the cancer cells are confined to the inner lining of the colon or rectum and have not spread. However, some early signs include changes in bowel habits (such as diarrhea, constipation, or changes in stool shape), the presence of bright red or dark red blood in the stool, abdominal pain or discomfort (especially persistent pain, bloating, or cramps), unexplained weight loss, chronic fatigue, and anemia.
In the intermediate stages, as the cancer invades deeper layers or spreads to nearby lymph nodes, symptoms may become more pronounced and severe. These can include more frequent abdominal pain, a feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation, mucus in the stool, nausea, and vomiting.
In the advanced stages, when the cancer has spread to distant organs, additional symptoms may arise. For example, if the cancer spreads to the liver, lungs, or bones, symptoms may include difficulty breathing, bone pain, and loss of appetite.
“Improving the cure rate for cancer patients hinges on early diagnosis. Studies have shown that colorectal cancer screening can reduce both incidence and mortality rates. Early detection and treatment generally yield better outcomes, whereas advanced cancer may require more complex treatment plans. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer remain a key focus in the medical field.”
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by Dr Ina Shaliny Duraisamy, Consultant Clinical Oncologist