Colorectal cancer can be a challenging condition in which there is abnormal growth in the colon. It also affects the digestive system.

But, it can be treated well with improved results when it is detected at the early stage.

If you want to understand the importance of early screening of colorectal cancer and want to know how, when and where to begin the screening, you’re in the right place.

Karepedia is here to guide you with knowledge about colorectal cancer and the importance of its early detection so that you can find a perfect solution for it. Let's dive in.

Why Is It Important to Detect Early?

When colorectal cancer is detected early, the treatment options are more effective.

Regular screening allows for the detection and removal of the polyps before they become cancerous.

Early detection treatment is usually less costly with less complication. It reduces the need for any other surgery.

Early detection and treatment can help maintain a higher quality of life for individuals diagnosed with colorectal cancer. There is less physical or emotional burden of the treatment, if detected early.

How Do You Detect Cancerous Cells?

Here’s how:

• Colonoscopy is used to detect colorectal cancer, in which a flexible, lighted tube is inserted into the rectum. The entire colon can be visualized for any abnormality.

• Fecal Occult Blood Test is used that detects hidden blood in the stool, which can lead to colorectal cancer.

• Fecal Immunochemical Test also gives good results.

• Stool DNA testing detects any abnormal cells in the blood.

Know The Various Risk Factors

• People over 50 have higher chances of having this issue but it can occur in younger adults also.

• Individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer or certain hereditary conditions, have an increased risk of developing the disease.

• Individuals who have previously been diagnosed with colorectal polyps or cancer are at higher risk of developing new polyps or cancer in the future.

• Chronic inflammatory conditions of the colon and rectum, can increase the risk of colorectal cancer over time.

• Some lifestyle factors such as obesity, sedentary lifestyle, cigarette smoking, increases the chances of getting this disease.

• People with type 2 diabetes are at increased risk of colorectal cancer.

How Can You Overcome The Barriers To Screening?

• Implement public health campaigns to educate individuals about the importance of colorectal cancer screening and promote awareness of available screening options.

• Provide healthcare providers with updated guidelines and training on colorectal cancer screening recommendations, risk assessment, and effective communication strategies to encourage patient participation.

• Offer financial assistance programs, or insurance coverage for colorectal cancer screening tests.

• Expand access to colorectal cancer screening facilities in underserved communities by increasing the number of screening centers.

• Develop culturally sensitive educational materials and other cultural factors that may influence screening behavior.

Promoting Awareness and Education

• Public Health Campaigns Launch public health campaigns to raise awareness about colorectal cancer, its risk factors, symptoms, and the importance of screening.

• Develop targeted outreach programs aimed at specific populations, such as individuals from underserved communities, racial and ethnic minorities, and those with limited access to healthcare.

• Incorporate colorectal cancer education into school curricula to reach younger generations and promote healthy behaviors, such as maintaining a balanced diet, regular physical activity.

• Encourage employers to offer paid time off for employees to attend screening appointments.

• Organize community engagement events, such as health fairs, workshops, and seminars, where individuals can learn about colorectal cancer. You can take help from local healthcare professionals.

Future Research and Directions

• Advances in genomics and molecular profiling are leading to a deeper understanding of the genetic mutations and molecular pathways involved in colorectal cancer.

• Immunotherapy, including immune checkpoint inhibitors and adoptive cell therapies, is showing promise in the treatment of colorectal cancer by harnessing the body's immune system to recognise and destroy cancer cells.

• Liquid biopsy techniques, such as circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) analysis and circulating tumor cells (CTCs) detection, offer non-invasive methods for monitoring disease progression.

• Development of novel screening technologies, such as blood-based biomarkers, imaging modalities, and minimally invasive tests, aims to improve the early detection of colorectal cancer.

• Understanding the complex interactions between the microbiome, host immune system, and tumor microenvironment may help in this case.

It is important to detect colorectal cancer as early as possible so that you can follow the guidelines and there will be less emotional and physical baggage on you.