What You Need to Know About Colorectal Cancer
by Corinn Guemmer
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, yet it is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers when detected early. With advancements in screening and a growing understanding of risk factors, early intervention is possible. Dr. Paresh R. Patel of Kansas City Gastroenterology and Hepatology shares his expertise on the topic, offering key insights on prevention, risk factors, and treatment options.
The Role of Diet in Colorectal Cancer
Diet plays a crucial role in the development and progression of colorectal cancer. According to Dr. Patel, diets high in red and processed meats, low in fiber, and rich in saturated and trans fats can contribute to an increased risk. Additionally, high sugar consumption leading to insulin resistance and low calcium intake are also linked to higher cancer risk.
A diet rich in fiber, particularly prebiotics from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can promote gut health and reduce inflammation. Fiber helps regulate digestion, supports beneficial gut bacteria, and may help remove harmful substances from the digestive tract before they can cause damage. Increasing fiber intake, along with maintaining balanced nutrition, helps support overall colon health and may lower the chances of developing colorectal cancer.
A Rise in Younger Patients
Historically, colorectal cancer was most commonly diagnosed in individuals in their 60s. However, recent data shows an alarming rise in cases among younger adults. In the past decade, doctors have started to recognize and diagnose patients at a younger age. The portion of cases diagnosed in individuals younger than 50 has increased from less than 10% to more than 11%.
Early-onset colorectal cancer, occurring in individuals between 18 and 49 years old, has become more prevalent. While researchers continue to investigate the causes of this shift, lifestyle factors such as diet, obesity, and sedentary behavior may contribute to the trend. Some studies suggest that environmental factors, genetics, and increased exposure to certain chemicals in processed foods may also play a role.
Because younger patients may not always be screened early, their diagnoses often come at a more advanced stage, making treatment more challenging. This shift in demographics underscores the importance of increased awareness and earlier screenings, particularly for individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer.
Best Practices for Prevention
When it comes to preventing colorectal cancer, Dr. Patel emphasizes the importance of proactive lifestyle choices. Prevention is better than cure, and some of the best preventive measures include dietary changes, increased physical activity, weight management, and proper nutrient intake. Eating more fiber-rich foods like leafy greens, fruits, and whole grains while reducing processed and red meats can help support colon health. Staying physically active can improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and lower overall cancer risk.
Controlling obesity is another key factor in lowering colorectal cancer risk, as excess weight has been linked to chronic inflammation and insulin resistance, both of which may contribute to tumor growth. Additionally, ensuring adequate calcium and vitamin D intake can support overall colon function. Research suggests that these nutrients may help regulate cell growth and prevent the formation of abnormal cells in the colon lining.
Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption also plays a critical role in colorectal cancer prevention. Smoking introduces carcinogens into the body that can increase cancer risk, while heavy alcohol use has been linked to inflammation and cellular damage in the digestive tract.
Combining these lifestyle changes with routine screenings provides the best defense against colorectal cancer.
Importance of Regular Screenings
Early detection is key in effectively treating colorectal cancer. Dr. Patel stresses that colonoscopy remains the gold standard for screening, as it allows doctors to detect and remove precancerous polyps before they develop into cancer. Colonoscopies also allow for direct visualization of the colon, which provides a more accurate assessment compared to other screening methods.
Any screening is better than none. While colonoscopy is the most effective method, other options include Cologuard, FIT tests, flexible sigmoidoscopy, and even the new Shield blood test. However, some of these alternative tests have lower sensitivity and may not detect all cases of precancerous growths.
The recommended age for routine colorectal cancer screenings has been lowered to 45 for individuals at average risk. Those with a family history or additional risk factors should consult with their doctor to determine if earlier screenings are necessary. Individuals experiencing symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, persistent changes in bowel habits, or rectal bleeding should also seek medical evaluation regardless of age.
Treatment Options
Colorectal cancer treatment depends on the stage of diagnosis. Dr. Patel outlines the different approaches based on cancer progression. Early-stage treatment often involves surgical resection to remove cancerous tissue before it spreads. In cases where the cancer is localized, surgery alone may be curative.
Later-stage treatment requires a multimodal approach, which may include surgery, oncology, and radiation therapy. Depending on the extent of the disease, chemotherapy or targeted therapies may also be used to slow tumor growth and improve patient outcomes. Advances in precision medicine have allowed doctors to tailor treatment plans based on genetic markers, improving effectiveness and reducing unnecessary side effects.
Gastroenterologists also play a role in ongoing care and monitoring, helping patients manage symptoms and prevent recurrence after treatment. For individuals diagnosed at later stages, palliative care and symptom management become essential components of treatment, aiming to improve quality of life and comfort.
Take Action for Your Health
Colorectal cancer is largely preventable with the right combination of lifestyle choices and routine screenings. Understanding risk factors, making healthier dietary choices, and prioritizing regular check-ups can significantly reduce your risk. If you’re 45 or older, or have a family history of colorectal cancer, talk to your doctor about scheduling a screening.
Raising awareness and encouraging proactive health decisions can help reduce the impact of colorectal cancer. By staying informed and taking preventive measures, individuals can take control of their health and increase the likelihood of early detection, which can make all the difference in successful treatment outcomes. Prevention and early detection are the most powerful tools in the fight against this disease.
For more information on colorectal cancer and Dr. Patel with Kansas City Gastroenterology and Hepatology, LLC, please visit https://kcgi.health, or call 816-361-0055.
