Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month: What Should We Do in March?
March is a hot month in Türkiye, as it is all over the world. Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month This month offers a serious opportunity to inform society and raise awareness about colon cancer. Every year, during this period, health organizations and associations organize various campaigns to help individuals understand their risk of colon cancer.
Importance of Colon Cancer and Early Diagnosis
Colon cancer is a disease that can be treated up to 90% when diagnosed early. However, it can have fatal consequences when it is delayed. Therefore, early diagnosis and screening methods are of great importance. Colon cancer is caused by lifestyle and genetic factors. In individuals over 50 years of age It is more common. This risk increases 2-3 times in people who have a family history of colon cancer in their first-degree relatives.
Risk Factors: Things to Consider
The main factors that increase the risk of colon cancer are:
- Nutrition habits: Diets low in fiber and rich in fat and red meat threaten intestinal health.
- Still Life: Individuals who do not exercise at least 150 minutes a week are at risk of colon cancer.
- Obesity and Alcohol Use: Having fat in the abdominal area and consuming more than two glasses of alcohol per day can trigger the growth of cancer cells.
Symptoms of Colon Cancer
Colon cancer may not cause symptoms in its early stages or may be confused with mild digestive problems. However, the following symptoms that persist for a long time may indicate colon cancer:
- Blood in the stool
- Unexplained weight loss
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Persistent pain and bloating in the abdominal area
- Constipation-Diarrhea cycle
If any of these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, seek medical attention immediately. to the gastroenterologist application is of vital importance.
Early Diagnosis Methods
Colonoscopy worldwide gold standard It is an accepted screening method. Removing polyps detected during the procedure can prevent cancer development by up to 80%. The Turkish Cancer Society recommends that individuals over the age of 50 have a colonoscopy every 10 years. It is emphasized that screening should begin at the age of 40 for individuals with a family history.
Colon Cancer Prevention Methods
Simple but effective steps to take to protect yourself from colon cancer are listed below:
- Eat Healthy: Don't leave broccoli, legumes and whole grains out of your diet. These foods are important sources of fiber that support intestinal health.
- Take Action: Strengthen your gut health by exercising at least 150 minutes a week. Regular physical activity reduces the risk of colon cancer.
- Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol Consumption: Quitting these habits can reduce your risk of cancer by 30-40%.
Raising Awareness in Society: Creating Awareness
The Turkish Cancer Association offers free accommodation to patients receiving cancer treatment and free screening services to individuals in the risk group. Raising public awareness plays a critical role in preventing diseases such as colon cancer. Individuals are encouraged to adopt a healthy lifestyle through educational programs, seminars and informative brochures.
In conclusion, creating awareness of colon cancer and increasing treatment opportunities through early diagnosis are vital for a healthy society. In this context, each individual should pay attention to their own health and be sensitive about the symptoms. It should not be forgotten that early diagnosis saves lives.
