Preventable | Treatable | Beatable — Get Screened
Colorectal cancer is among the most common cancers worldwide.
It has been thought to be less common in Asia compared to Western countries. However, the incidence rates of colon cancer in Asia are high and there is an increasing trend in the Asian population.
Some conceptions about colorectal cancer are just plain wrong. Check how much you know:
Myth 1: Colorectal cancer is a man’s disease
Fact: Colorectal cancer is just as common in women as it is in men. For men, it is the no. 1 diagnosed cancer and 2nd cancer killer. For women, it is the no. 2 diagnosed cancer and 3rd cancer killer.
Myth 2: Colorectal cancer cannot be prevented
Fact: In many cases, colorectal cancer is preventable. A low-fat diet that is high in vegetables and fruits, plus regular exercise, may reduce your risk of developing the disease. Since most of these cancers develop from non-cancerous polyps (growths on the lining of the colon and rectum), screening can detect and remove polyps before they become cancerous. Again, this is why regular colonoscopies are crucial.
Myth 3: You will only get colon cancer if you have a family history of the disease
Fact: The truth is that about 75% of all new cases of colon cancer occur in individuals with no known risk factors other than being age 50 or older. Having a family history just means you may need to start your screening earlier or have screenings more frequently.
Myth 4: Colonoscopies aren’t necessary until you are 50 years old or older
Fact: While this may have been true for many people in the past, there have been recent developments regarding when people should start getting screened due to rising colorectal cancer cases among people under the age of 50. Depending on your family history, health/lifestyle, ethnicity or race, you may need to get screened earlier. Talk to FeM Surgery about your options.
Myth 5: There is no cure
Fact: Colorectal cancer is curable when detected early. Approximately 90% of patients with cancer that is confined to the colon or rectum can be cured. The problem is that only 37% of all cases are diagnosed at this stage. The remaining 63% don’t come to the doctor until the disease has spread beyond the wall of the colon or rectum or to other parts of the body. It may be more difficult to completely cure the disease at this point.
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