Colorectal cancer cases in recent years have drawn the attention of both patients and medical professionals. Chief surgeon Dr. Preethi Mrinalini K of Marina’s Clinic in Chennai emphasises the significance of comprehending the causes of this rise and the actions people can take to reduce their risk. This blog post explores prevention tactics and the critical role that early detection plays in the fight against this illness.

Understanding Colorectal Cancer

Though it is sometimes disregarded, colorectal cancer is a serious enemy that has to be taken seriously. This kind of cancer starts in the colon or rectum and mostly affects elderly people, while younger people are being diagnosed with it more frequently. It is essential to comprehend its symptoms to discover it early and treat it effectively. Changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, discomfort in the abdomen, inexplicable weight loss, and exhaustion are among the possible symptoms. Colonoscopies and other screening procedures can help in early detection, which may save lives. Stressing a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise and a well-balanced, high-fiber diet can also help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. In the fight against this illness, raising awareness and taking preventative medical action are essential.

Strategies for Prevention

Dietary modifications: Including a range of vibrant fruits and vegetables in your meals gives you important antioxidants that help prevent cell damage in addition to providing vitamins and minerals. Fibre included in whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, and oats promotes regular bowel movements and assists with digestion. Cutting back on red and processed meat consumption can help reduce exposure to chemicals that raise the risk of colorectal cancer.
Regular Screening: Colonoscopies are the gold standard for screening for colorectal cancer because they enable medical professionals to find and remove precancerous polyps before they turn into cancer. Dr. Preethi Mrinalini emphasises that most people should start screenings at age 45, but those who have a family history of the condition or other risk factors may need to start even earlier.

Physical Activity: Maintaining a regular exercise schedule helps manage weight and also decreases insulin levels, soothes inflammation in the body, and aids in a healthy digestive system. To benefit from the preventative effects of colorectal cancer, aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.
Avoid Smoking and limit alcohol: Because tobacco includes carcinogenic substances that can harm cells in the colon and rectum, smoking raises the risk of getting colorectal cancer. Similarly, consuming too much alcohol can cause irritation and inflammation in the intestinal lining, which increases the risk of cancer. Two essential measures in the prevention of colorectal cancer are giving up smoking and reducing alcohol use.

Maintain a Healthy Weight: Since excess body fat may lead to inflammation and insulin resistance, obesity is a known risk factor for colon cancer. People can attain and sustain a healthy weight and lower their risk of colorectal cancer and other chronic diseases by following a balanced diet and getting regular exercise.
Understand Your Family History: Medical professionals can evaluate your risk and suggest suitable screening intervals if they are aware of your family’s medical history, particularly concerning colorectal cancer or other gastrointestinal disorders. To further assess your risk factors, genetic counseling might be helpful if there is a family history of the illness.

Watch for Symptoms: Although colorectal cancer may not show any symptoms at first, it’s important to be aware of any changes in bowel patterns, such as chronic constipation or diarrhea, blood in the stool, stomach pain, cramping, unexplained weight loss, or exhaustion. Informing your healthcare provider of any troubling symptoms as soon as possible enables prompt investigation and maybe early discovery.
Frequent Medical Check-Ups: Regular visits to your doctor are essential for preserving general health and identifying any potential issues, such as colorectal cancer. Comprehensive medical screenings and evaluations are performed at Marina’s Clinic to keep an eye on your health and quickly treat any new concerns.

Conclusion

It is more crucial than ever to take preventative action as the risk of colorectal cancer is rising. People can greatly lower their risk by making better lifestyle decisions and being screened frequently. To effectively fight this disease, Dr. Preethi Mrinalini K and the medical professionals at Marinas Clinic are committed to offering the best possible care and education.