There are 8% of women who claim new colorectal cancer cases in the United States. Regular screenings can dramatically lower the chance of developing colorectal cancer by detecting it early. This article delves into the benefits of early colorectal cancer screening for women, the necessity of consistent screenings, and the identification of potential symptoms.
The Power of Early Screening
Recent research indicates that commencing colorectal cancer screenings before turning 50 can markedly reduce a woman’s risk.
Women who initiated screenings at 45 years old saw a 60% decrease in colorectal cancer risk compared to those who received no endoscopic screening or opted to start at 50. Early screenings are crucial for identifying colorectal cancer in its earliest stages, often when symptoms are absent.
Understanding Your Risk Factors
Although a mere 5% of colorectal cancers are inherited, some aspects can increase your susceptibility to the condition. People with a family history of early-onset CRC or inflammatory bowel disease are at an elevated risk and might need to initiate screenings before turning 45.
Understanding your family history and consulting with your healthcare professional can ease the decision-making process regarding when to start screenings.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Regular screenings are essential for early detection of colorectal cancer because it frequently has no symptoms in its early stages. Yet, when the illness worsens, some symptoms could manifest. They may consist of:
- Persistent changes to bowel routines
- Stool stains or rectal bleeding
- Constant stomach discomfort such cramps, gas, or agony
- A sensation that your bowels aren’t totally emptied
It is essential to seek your provider’s guidance for further tests if you notice any of these symptoms.
The Benefits of Colonoscopies
Colonoscopies are a highly trusted method for screening colorectal cancer. According to studies, colonoscopies can lower the chance of developing colorectal cancer by up to 69% and the risk of dying from it by up to 88%. By using this screening technique, medical professionals can find and remove precancerous polyps before they turn into cancer.
The Rise of Colorectal Cancer in Younger Adults
It is important to highlight that colorectal cancer rates among those under the age of 55 have been rising. The rate of colorectal cancer in people under the age of 55 grew by 1.9% year from 2011 to 2019.
This pattern emphasizes the value of early detection of colorectal cancer through routine screenings, which could potentially save lives.
FAQ
How do childbirth and pregnancy increase a woman’s risk of developing colorectal cancer?
A few studies indicate that women who have given birth may have a slightly lower chance of having the disease compared to those who have never been pregnant, despite the fact that there is no direct link between pregnancy and colon cancer risk. The precise causes, meanwhile, are not yet known. No matter their past experience of pregnancies, all women must adhere to age- and risk-based colorectal cancer screening recommendations.
Can hormonal replacement therapy (HRT) affect a woman’s risk of developing colorectal cancer?
According to certain studies, using hormone replacement therapy—especially estrogen-only therapy—may be accompanied by a somewhat lower risk of colorectal cancer. HRT has, however, also been associated with an increased risk of other medical conditions, including blood clots and breast cancer. When deciding if HRT is correct for you, it’s crucial to go over the potential dangers and advantages with your provider.
Is there any way that a woman’s diet can affect her risk of developing colorectal cancer?
Nutrition can affect the risk of colorectal cancer. A diet that is heavy on processed and red meat and light on fresh produce and nutritious grains may raise the risk of colorectal cancer. To lower their risk of colorectal cancer, women should concentrate on eating a diet that is well-balanced, high in fiber, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory minerals.
Question: Can exercise reduce a woman’s risk of developing colorectal cancer?
Research has shown that regular exercise lowers the risk of colorectal cancer in both men and women. Exercise that ranges from moderate to strenuous helps maintain a healthy weight, enhances digestion, and reduces inflammation, all of which can lessen the risk of colon cancer. As well as muscle-strengthening exercises on at least two days per week, aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week.
How does drinking alcohol impact a woman’s risk of developing colorectal cancer?
Drinking too much alcohol has been linked to a higher risk of colorectal cancer. To lower the risk of colorectal cancer and other health problems linked to alcohol usage, it is advised that women consume no more than one drink per day.
Are there any other colorectal cancer screening procedures besides colonoscopies?
Other screening techniques are available, including flexible sigmoidoscopy, stool DNA testing, and fecal immunochemical assays (FIT). While less intrusive than a colonoscopy, these tests might not be as good at spotting precancerous polyps or cancer in its early stages. In order to choose the screening option that will best meet your unique needs, it is crucial to explore your options with your healthcare professional.
Visit Your Primary Care Provider
Colorectal cancer is a serious danger for women, but regular tests can greatly lower that risk. According to a recent study, starting screenings at age 45 can cut women’s risk of colorectal cancer by 60%.
Changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, discomfort in the abdomen, and the perception of incomplete bowel movements are all signs of colorectal cancer. Even while only 5% of colorectal cancers are hereditary, the risk is higher for people who have a family history of early-onset CRC or conditions such inflammatory bowel disease.
Frequent screenings, such as colonoscopies, can lower the risk of developing colorectal cancer by up to 88% and by up to 69% new cases. It’s important to take charge of your colorectal health and talk to your provider about screening possibilities.
