Colon cancer otherwise referred to as colorectal cancer, is a type of malignant tumor that originates in the final segment of the digestive tract, specifically the large intestine or rectum.
Following breast cancer, colon cancer is the second most frequently diagnosed cancer in Jordan. During the last decade, the incidence of colon cancer in Jordan has increased progressively, with an age-standardized incidence rate of 9.9 per 100,000 individuals in 2018.
Coinciding with this surge in incidence, the mortality rate associated with colon cancer has also been on the rise, with a rate of 4.8 deaths per 100,000 individuals in the same year.
The Most Affected
Colon cancer disproportionately affects males, with a male-to-female ratio of 1.3:1, and typically manifests in individuals aged 58 years or older. Risk factors for colon cancer include a family history of the illness, a diet rich in red or processed meat, obesity, smoking, a history of polyps in the colon, and a sedentary lifestyle.
Individuals over the age of 45 with a family history of the disease and additional risk factors should be screened for colon cancer at an early stage.
Testing for Colon Cancer
Various screening tests have been developed to aid physicians in detecting colorectal cancer at its early stages. One of these tests is the Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) test.
1- Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) Test
The CEA test detects the presence of a glycoprotein tumor marker. Elevated levels of CEA may indicate colon cancer, and this blood test can be employed to diagnose and monitor the progression of the disease or the effectiveness of treatment.
2- Detection of Occult Blood in the Stool (FOBT & FIT)
Another screening test that can be performed is the detection of occult blood in the stool, which is done to detect blood that is not visible to the naked eye. This test is non-invasive, safe, and specific. There are two types of fecal occult blood tests that can be used, namely fecal occult blood tests (FOBT) and fecal immunochemical tests (FIT).
FOBT involves a chemical reaction that identifies heme, a constituent of hemoglobin, while FIT uses antibodies that are designed to detect the presence of a human globin in the stool, enabling them to detect very low concentrations.
Conclusion
It is important to note that while these tests are considered screening tests for colon cancer and gastrointestinal health, they do not replace imaging tests, colonoscopies, and biopsies. These tests should be performed once a year to help detect colon cancer early on.
Preventative measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of colon cancer include adhering to a healthy diet and lifestyle, engaging in regular exercise, quitting smoking, and undergoing regular screening tests.
March is National Colon Cancer Awareness Month, so trust your gut and schedule an appointment with Unilabs today to ensure your gastrointestinal health is optimal.