Nearly 10,000: This is the number of colorectal cancer victims in 2021 in Canada. Individuals who, for the most part, could have been avoided if they had been screened and cancer detected in time.
Montreal, February 21. 2, 2022 /CNW/ — With the month of March dedicated to colorectal cancer awareness approaching, Colorectal Cancer Canada wants to be reminded of the importance of screening, treating and curing this preventable, treatable and curable cancer.
Colorectal cancer, which is extremely deadly, is one of the easiest types of colorectal cancer to detect and treat if caught early.
On average, 68 Canadians are diagnosed with colorectal cancer each day. It affects men (52%) and women (44.8%) in roughly equal proportions, and death occurs immediately after lung cancer for men and lung and breast cancer in women. “We mistakenly think this cancer is for men, yet women are affected too. Lack of awareness of the disease puts them at risk of developing easily preventable and treatable cancers in its early stages,” said Barry Stein, chief colorectal cancer Canada chief and survivor. “Most deaths from colorectal cancer could be prevented through early detection, if all Canadians between the ages of 50 and 74 were tested periodically in accordance with state and provincial guidelines.”
In fact, in all provinces (except Quebec), the structured screening program for colorectal cancer targets women and men aged 50 to 74 who do not have any symptoms. However, despite the excellent performance of the test (iRSOS), the target population is still too small to participate. This delay in screening has serious consequences for the chances of prevention and treatment: the net survival at 5 years is only 67%. This may be explained by the fact that nearly 50% of colorectal cancers are diagnosed only in stages III and IV, when they are more difficult to treat.
Colon and rectal cancer is more dangerous in young adults
If those over the age of 50 represent the most affected audience by this disease, its impact among young people should not be underestimated. In fact, 4% of deaths from colorectal cancer occur in people between the ages of 20 and 50. In question, more aggressive and more widespread cancer. “Recent data, particularly US studies, show that there is an increased risk of advanced cancer among people aged 20 to 50,” says Barry Stein. Therefore, it is essential to benefit from close monitoring in case of genetic risks, but also to know how to spot the warning signs.
Stool analysis: taboo, but vital
The prognosis for colorectal cancer depends largely on its stage at diagnosis. Fortunately, it can be detected at an early stage, and even before the tumor becomes malignant, thanks to a screening test that consists of looking for the presence of bleeding in the stool that is not visible to the naked eye. Monitoring of symptoms is essential. Among them: unexplained changes in stool emptying (diarrhea or constipation), in its size and shape, as well as bleeding, false needs, pain, or even unexplained fatigue.
“Once a patient, even a small one, presents some of these symptoms to a doctor, it is essential to study the course of colorectal cancer. By knowing how to detect and diagnose it, we can save many lives,” concludes Barry Stein.
With Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month kicking off in March, and especially with screening postponed during the pandemic, this prevention and warning message is more important than ever.
On March 4, to raise public awareness, several Canadian landmarks such as the Sails of Canada Place in Vancouver, Niagara Falls, the Olympic Stadium in Montreal and the Calgary Tower, will be lit blue to honor those affected. by disease.
Highlights
Colorectal cancer affects the colon, rectum, or both. It develops from the cells that line the inner wall of these organs. Most often, a benign tumor, called a polyp, grows slowly and eventually becomes cancerous. Detected early, it can be removed before it becomes cancerous.
Colorectal cancer is the second deadliest cancer in men and the third in women.
On average, 68 Canadians are diagnosed with colorectal cancer each day, and 26 die from it.
In 2021, an estimated 24,800 Canadians will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer. It is said that 9,600 people died.
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