How to control colon cancer?

Ask:

Colorectal cancer is becoming a global health burden, ranking third in incidence and second in mortality. In Vietnam, this disease is increasingly younger, so is there any way to control this disease, doctor?

Nguyen Ha (Hanoi)

Illustration photo.

Dr. Nguyen Binh Nguyen, Center for Hepatobiliary Digestion, Bach Mai Hospital replied:

In fact, the incidence of colon cancer is increasing rapidly due to two factors: Lifestyle and genetics. A "Westernized" lifestyle with a diet high in red meat, processed meat, low in fiber, along with the habit of smoking, drinking alcohol and lack of exercise are the leading factors. Notably, the disease is not only found in the elderly but is getting younger, with many cases under 45 years old.

There is no way to guarantee 100%, but we can control it in two ways.

First: Change your lifestyle by losing weight (if you are overweight). Increasing physical activity helps reduce the risk of colon cancer and polyps. Follow a healthy diet such as eating lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and eating less red meat and processed meat. Reduce or stop drinking alcohol, quit smoking.

Second: Regular screening is the "golden key" to early detection of precancerous polyps. If polyps are removed promptly, the risk of cancer is reduced by up to 90%. Regular colorectal cancer screening is one of the most effective measures to prevent colorectal cancer.

Most colorectal cancers develop from precancerous polyps. Polyps grow from small to large, then dysplasia and cancer.

From the time the first abnormal cells begin to develop into polyps, it usually takes about 10 to 15 years for them to develop into colon cancer.

With regular screening, most polyps can be found and removed before they have a chance to turn into cancer. Screening can also detect colon cancer at an earlier stage, when it has not spread and may be easier to treat, which improves prognosis and survival.

Source: https://www.baogiaothong.vn/cach-nao-de-kiem-soat-ung-thu-dai-trang-192250328142404764.htm