According to the most recent data from the Hong Kong Cancer Registry, colorectal cancer is now the most common cancer in the city, with more than 5,635 new cases diagnosed in 2017. Colorectal cancer is also the second leading cause of cancer related deaths in Hong Kong, with over 2000 deaths in 2015.
Risk factors‼️
◽First degree relatives with colon cancer (relatives are at 2-3x higher risk of developing colorectal cancer than the general population, and are recommended to undergo colonoscopyscreening)
◽Diabetes
◽Fatty liver
◽Smoking history
◽Frequent alcohol intake
◽Frequent red meat consumption
◽Frequent processed meat consumption
◽Obesity
◽Minimal physical activity
◽Minimal fiber intake
Symptoms ⭕
Colorectal cancer can be asymptomatic but symptoms can include:
◽Blood in stool
◽Mucus in stool
◽Changes in bowel habits
◽Diarrhea or constipation
◽Abdominal pain
◽Unexplained weight loss
◽Unexplained anemia
Screening
Colorectal cancer often has no obvious symptoms in early onset stage. Regular screening can help early diagnosis before it is too late to cure. Even if you do not have the above symptoms, international guidelines still recommend starting screening at 50 years old, using either:
◽Fecal immunochemical test
◽Colonoscopy
Earlier screening may be recommended for high-risk groups, such as people with a first degree relative with colorectal cancer. If you have any of the above symptoms, you are recommended to seek medical consultation. A colonoscopy may be recommended.
