Increase in colon cancer cases: Early diagnosis saves lives

Gastroenterology Specialist Assoc. Prof. Dr. Murat İspiroğlu, who works in Kahramanmaraş, noted a notable increase in colon cancer cases among individuals under the age of 40, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis. İspiroğlu warned that screening tests should not be neglected.

While the number of patients seeking medical attention for digestive system ailments has increased in recent years, experts point out that colon cancer is increasingly occurring in younger age groups. Colonoscopy screenings at Sular Academy Hospital in Kahramanmaraş have confirmed this finding. In the past month alone, four cases of colon cancer were detected in the 45-55 age group.

Genetic and Nutritional Risk Factors

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Murat İspiroğlu stated that colon cancer rates in Kahramanmaraş are close to the Turkish average, emphasizing that easier access to colonoscopic screenings increases awareness.

İspiroğlu said, "Recent patient visits have shown an increase in colon cancer cases, particularly among those under 40. Across Turkey, the incidence of colon cancer is between 15 and 25 per 100,000. However, these rates can also pose a risk at younger ages. Many factors, including genetic predisposition, vitamin D deficiency, dietary habits, smoking, and alcohol use, increase the risk."

EARLY DIAGNOSIS SAVES LIVES

Stating that early diagnosis is vital, İspiroğlu said that the four cases detected in the last month were between the ages of 45 and 55, which shows how important colonoscopy screenings are.

İspiroğlu stated, "If there are family history of hereditary diseases, such as polyposis syndromes, screening should begin at age 15. Individuals with a family history of colon cancer under the age of 40 are recommended to begin screening 8-10 years prior to diagnosis. It's important for individuals with risk factors to be screened annually, and for those without a family history, to be screened every five years after age 50."

Diet and lifestyle also play a role

İspiroğlu noted that dietary habits are also an important factor, noting that a diet high in fiber and fatty foods, along with smoking and alcohol consumption, increases the risk. He also noted that vitamin D deficiency also increases the risk of colon cancer.

İspiroğlu emphasized that anemia should not be ignored, saying, "When patients present with anemia, they are usually given only blood thinning medication. However, this could be a sign of hidden bleeding in the stomach or intestines. Therefore, tests such as a colonoscopy and gastric endoscopy should be performed."