A Sedentary Lifestyle Increases the Risk of Colon Cancer
Colon cancer (large intestine cancer) is a serious disease that can develop due to genetic factors, unhealthy nutrition, physical inactivity and obesity, and can be life-threatening if not diagnosed at an early stage. While the risk increases especially in individuals over the age of 50, it is possible to prevent colon cancer through regular colonoscopy screenings, healthy nutrition and exercise.
Stating that urban life and inactivity trigger colon cancer, Gastroenterology Specialist Prof. Dr. Levent Demirtürk said, “Individuals who lead a sedentary lifestyle, consume excessive red meat and solid fats, have a diet poor in fruits, vegetables and fiber, and prefer foods cooked in direct contact with charcoal are at risk of colon cancer.”
Genetic changes occurring in genes, urban life, physical inactivity, unbalanced nutrition and obesity increase the risk of colon cancer, also known as large intestine cancer. Emsey Hospital Gastroenterology Specialist Prof. Dr. Levent made evaluations on the occasion of March 1–31 World Colon Cancer Awareness Month. Prof. Dr. Demirtürk stated that colon cancer, which manifests itself with different symptoms in patients, may present with abdominal discomfort, abdominal pain, weight loss, weakness, fatigue and iron deficiency, and that the onset process may vary from person to person.
MORE COMMON IN MEN
Emphasizing that colon cancer is more common in men, Prof. Dr. Demirtürk also drew attention to the importance of the location where cancers develop.
Demirtürk said, “Cancers located close to the anal region or on the left side of the intestine give symptoms earlier. Colon cancer is generally the 3rd most common cancer in men and the 2nd most common cancer in women after breast cancer.”
AGE IS THE MOST FUNDAMENTAL RISK FACTOR
Stating that age is the most fundamental risk factor in colon cancer, Prof. Dr. Demirtürk pointed out that the incidence of large intestine cancer increases from the age of 50.
He expressed that individuals who lead a sedentary lifestyle, consume excessive red meat and solid fats, have diets poor in fruits, vegetables and fiber, and prefer foods cooked in direct contact with charcoal are at risk.
Prof. Dr. Demirtürk said, “Individuals who have had inflammatory bowel disease, who have precancerous polyps in their intestines, who have a family history of colon cancer, and who have previously been diagnosed with other cancers are in an important risk group and must definitely undergo their check-ups.”
PAY ATTENTION TO EXERCISE AND NUTRITION!
Emphasizing that physical exercise should be performed at least three days a week in the form of brisk walking for 45–60 minutes, Prof. Dr. Levent Demirtürk also noted that nutrition is effective in the development of cancer and said, “Reduce red meat and processed meat consumption. Try to consume white meat and plant-based proteins. Increase fresh fruit and vegetable consumption. Do not consume foods cooked in direct contact with charcoal. Get rid of excess weight.”
UNDERGO COLONOSCOPY FROM THE AGE OF 50
Warning, “Even if there is no colon cancer in your family, since the age of 50 is considered a moderate risk group for colon cancer, undergo colonoscopy at the recommended intervals starting from the age of 50,” Prof. Dr. Demirtürk concluded his remarks as follows:
“If colon cancer is not diagnosed at an early stage, it is a disease with a fatal course. Patients who are diagnosed at an early stage and undergo follow-up and treatment can continue their normal lives. In patients diagnosed with cancer, treatment varies depending on where the cancer is located in the intestine, the length of the affected segment, and whether it has spread to surrounding tissues or another organ. In this context, generally the removal of the tumor-bearing part or a portion of the intestine, or the application of radiotherapy and chemotherapy may be required. In patients who do not have the chance for curative surgery, the main treatment methods are the placement of a metallic stent, if appropriate depending on the location of the tumor, or the administration of chemotherapy in order to prevent intestinal obstruction.”
