Colorectal cancer

 Bowl Structure and Function

• Colon, also known as bowl or the large intestine, is a muscular tube about 1.5 meter and 6 cm in diameter. Located in the abdomen at the end portion of human digestive tract. The colon absorbs water and minerals from the indigestible food.

What is Colorectal Cancer

• A tumor results from malignant cells growth in the colon or the rectum. 
• It typically begins as a benign polyp develops on the lining of the colon or rectum and can develop slowly over a period of 10-15 years to become cancerous.
• Colorectal cancer can develop also from abnormal cells or ulcers in the lining of the colon and rectum. This is most common among patients with colon inflammation diseases (ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease).

Colorectal Cancer Facts and Statistics – Worldwide 2022

•  Globally, colorectal cancer is the third (3^rd) most prevalent cancer around the world, and the second (2^nd) leading cause of cancer deaths. 
• In men, it’s the third (3^rd) most common cancer among them, and also the third (3^rd) to cause cancer deaths. Same applies for women as well. 

Colorectal Cancer Facts and Statistics –Abu Dhabi 2019

• The third (3^rd) most common cancer in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, and the fourth (4^th) leading cause of cancer death (2019, 2018)
• Colorectal cancer is more common among men than women in Abu Dhabi, accounting for (66.3%) of male cases and (33.7%) of female cases - (2019). 

Colorectal Cancer Symptoms

      Colorectal cancer can present before symptoms develop. Over time, some symptoms may appear and should be considered as warning signs.

• Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding.
• Change in normal bowl habits.
• Feeling bowl not empty.
• Weakness and Fatigue.
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Abdominal pain. 

Risk Factors of Colorectal Cancer

• Aging
• Family or personal history of colorectal cancer.
• Personal history of polyps or colon inflammation diseases (ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease).

• Unhealthy lifestyle: inactivity, tobacco smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity and unhealthy diet.

Colorectal Cancer Prevention (Ways to reduce the risk)

• Quit smoking and avoid second-hand smoke.
• Follow a healthy diet.
• Exercise regularly.
• Regular screening and early detection 

 Colorectal Cancer Screening

     Department of Health Abu Dhabi (DOH) recommends the following screening tests for men and women of age (40 – 75) years old.

1. Stool test (FIT) once a year, or
2. Colonoscopy once every 10 years, or
3. Liquid Biopsy Sheild Test (blood test) which provided to people with specific inclusion criteria

       Early detection services are available through (IFHAS) program to all Thiqa-card holders in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.

       For more information, Click here