Bowel cancer is a malignant tumor affecting the large intestine (colon) and rectum (the end of the intestine, just before the anus), also known as colorectal cancer. According to the latest estimate from the National Cancer Institute (Inca), more than 41,000 new cases are diagnosed each year in our country. It is the third most common cancer among Brazilians, second only to prostate cancer in men and breast cancer in women. It is estimated that the lifetime risk of developing this cancer is 4%. Diagnosis most often occurs before the disease has spread to other organs. Treatment is possible for most patients.
It is common in the imagination of the population to think that the main risk factors for cancer are hereditary and hereditary diseases. However, this is a myth that must be fought. It is estimated that about 90% of cases of bowel cancer are caused by external and environmental factors, such as obesity, lack of physical activity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, a diet rich in processed foods especially processed meats and red meat, and a poor diet in vegetables, vegetables, fiber and fruits. Through simple changes in our lifestyle habits, we can significantly reduce the risk of developing this cancer.
Colonoscopy is central to the strategy to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. This test makes it possible to identify and treat (through removal) early lesions, such as polyps, that can develop into cancer. Although the average age at diagnosis of bowel cancer is 67 years, recent studies have shown an increase in the number of new cases and deaths from this tumor among young adults (<45 years).
For this reason, medical societies have begun to recommend colonoscopy for all people at age 45, and it may be necessary to have it before this age depending on a family history of colorectal cancer. How often the test should be repeated depends on the results of the previous test, and it can be every 5-10 years (if the test is normal) to shorter periods (when high risk factors are detected). Most medical societies recommend stopping colonoscopy at age 75. After this age, it may be indicated in specific situations.
Therefore, if you want to reduce the risk of bowel cancer, you should do regular physical exercise (30 minutes a day), fight obesity, avoid excessive alcohol intake, consume less red meat, avoid processed, processed and canned foods, and eat more fruits and vegetables. Fiber and a colonoscopy at age 45.
Prevention and information are still the best weapons in the fight against cancer.
In cooperation with Dr. Ricardo Carvalho – Clinical Oncologist
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