Health matters: understanding the severity of colorectal cancer

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, which shines a lightweight on the third leading cause of cancer death for each men and ladies in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, 106,590 latest cases of colorectal cancer will probably be diagnosed in 2024. Recently, over the previous few many years, there was a disturbing increase in the incidence of colorectal cancer amongst people under 50 years of age. Chadwick Boseman, known for his starring role in the hit film, has died of cancer at the age of 43, leaving our community and beyond shocked and confused. Earlier this month, his widow, Taylor Simone Ledward-Boseman, spoke at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, Massachusetts, where she urged people to attend the screenings (open to people in the United States aged 45 and over), stating that cancer is “curable if detected early.”

The American Cancer Society states that in 2020 in the United States, roughly 12% of colorectal cancers will probably be diagnosed in people under 50 years of age. Additionally, the risk of colorectal cancer is higher in Black Americans because the cancer disproportionately affects the Black community, where disease rates are the highest of any racial/ethnic group in the United States. Unfortunately, black Americans are roughly 20% more prone to develop colon cancer and roughly 40% more prone to die from it than most other groups.

But why? The causes are complex and sophisticated, and one factor is lack of access to health care as a consequence of socioeconomic status. “Colorectal cancer is the second deadliest cancer in the country,” said Durado Brooks, M.D., vp of prevention and early detection at the American Cancer Society. “This disease is devastating the Black community, and as at all times, it is necessary that everybody has access to and receive really useful screening tests. Even during the coronavirus pandemic, screening tests are still available to stop the disease or detect it at an early, more treatable stage.

The American Cancer Society now recommends that folks at average risk of developing colorectal cancer begin regular screening at age 45. Colonoscopies are the hottest screening test for colon cancer. However, there are several tests available. We talked to Dr. John Whyte, medical director of WebMD, to debate several screening tools used to detect polyps or colon cancer, how often each type of test is performed, and which of them could also be appropriate based in your risk, family history, and medical history, including : :

• Stool tests
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy
• Colonoscopy
• CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy)

Essence: What is the cause of colon cancer?

Doctor John Whyte: Colon cancer, like other cancers, results from the uncontrolled growth and division of cells in the colon or rectum. The exact cause is complex and multifactorial and includes genetic mutations (only about 20 percent), lifestyle aspects (comparable to eating regimen and exercise, poor sleep), environmental exposure, and chronic inflammation. However, most cases of colon cancer start as small, benign clumps of cells called polyps, which might turn into cancer over time.

The importance of sleep and the way poor sleep can increase your risk of cancer

Adequate sleep is crucial to maintaining overall health, including cancer prevention. Poor sleep or disrupted sleep-wake cycles can result in hormonal imbalance, increased inflammation, and impaired immune function, all of which might potentially increase the risk of cancer. Research suggests that folks who don’t sleep well or work night shifts, disrupting their circadian rhythm, could also be at greater risk of developing various types of cancer. Think about it – the very first thing you do if you do not feel well is sleep. You instinctively know that it helps your immune system function.

What effect does exercise have on cancer risk?

Regular exercise has been shown to cut back the risk of several types of cancer, including colon cancer. Exercise helps regulate hormone levels, reduces insulin resistance and reduces inflammation, which can help reduce the risk of cancer. It may also change the way genes are expressed, reducing cellular errors. Additionally, physical activity can enable you maintain a healthy weight, which is very important because obesity is a known risk factor for colon cancer and plenty of other cancers. Exercise is as near a magic pill as we’re.

How can brushing your teeth reduce your risk of cancer?

Good oral hygiene and regular dental care can potentially reduce the risk of colon cancer. Poor oral health is related to an increased risk of cancer, possibly as a consequence of chronic inflammation attributable to gum disease (periodontitis). Some research suggests that specific bacteria living in diseased gums can enter the bloodstream and contribute to inflammation and cancer risk in other parts of the body, including the colon. This is an area requiring further research.

What do you have to eat to cut back the risk of colon cancer?

Diet plays a major role in the risk of developing colon cancer. A eating regimen high in red and processed meat is related to an increased risk of colon cancer. Conversely, diets wealthy in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins may also help reduce your risk. High alcohol consumption (greater than two drinks a day) and obesity are also known risk aspects for colon cancer. Dietary aspects that promote inflammation and impact gut health, comparable to low fiber intake, may further influence risk. One of the most important changes to your eating regimen is increasing your fiber intake.