Colorectal cancer (CRC), which includes cancers of the colon and rectum, is a growing health burden in Asia. Lifestyle changes, aging populations, and low screening rates contribute to rising cases. With timely screening and modern treatments, survival can be significantly improved. This guide explores colorectal cancer causes, risk factors, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention tailored for Asia.
What is Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer develops when abnormal growths (polyps) in the colon or rectum become malignant. Over time, these cancers may invade surrounding tissues or spread to other organs.
Colorectal Cancer in Asia
- Rising Incidence: CRC is among the top three most common cancers in many Asian countries.
- Dietary Influence: Increased consumption of processed foods, red meat, and low-fiber diets drive risk.
- Urbanization: Sedentary lifestyles and obesity contribute to the surge.
- Low Screening Rates: Many cases are detected only at advanced stages.
According to recent studies, colorectal cancer cases in Asia are expected to double within the next two decades.
Causes and Risk Factors
1. Lifestyle
- High red and processed meat consumption.
- Low intake of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
- Lack of physical activity.
- Obesity and metabolic syndrome.
2. Medical Conditions
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease increase risk.
- Type 2 Diabetes: Strongly linked to higher CRC risk.
3. Genetic and Family History
- Family history of CRC or polyps.
- Hereditary syndromes like Lynch syndrome and FAP (familial adenomatous polyposis).
4. Other Risks
- Smoking and alcohol use.
- Aging (most cases occur after age 50).
Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer
Early CRC often has no symptoms. Warning signs include:
- Persistent changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation).
- Blood in stool or rectal bleeding.
- Abdominal pain or cramping.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Fatigue and anemia.
⚠️ Because symptoms may mimic common digestive issues, regular screening is vital.
Diagnosis of Colorectal Cancer
- Colonoscopy: Gold standard for detecting and removing precancerous polyps.
- Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT): Detects hidden blood in stool.
- Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): More specific stool test.
- CT Colonography: Imaging alternative to colonoscopy.
- Biopsy: Confirms cancer diagnosis.
Treatment of Colorectal Cancer
1. Surgery
- Polypectomy: Removal of early-stage polyps during colonoscopy.
- Colectomy: Partial removal of the colon or rectum.
2. Chemotherapy
- Used after surgery or for advanced stages.
3. Radiation Therapy
- Often used for rectal cancer to shrink tumors before surgery.
4. Targeted and Immunotherapy
- Targeted therapy: Drugs attack specific mutations (e.g., EGFR inhibitors).
- Immunotherapy: Effective in cancers with genetic instability (MSI-high tumors).
Prevention of Colorectal Cancer in Asia
Screening Programs
- Colonoscopy starting at age 45–50.
- Regular FIT or FOBT for those unable to undergo colonoscopy.
- Earlier screening for high-risk groups (family history, IBD).
Lifestyle Changes
- Increase fiber intake (whole grains, fruits, vegetables).
- Reduce red meat and processed meat consumption.
- Exercise regularly (150 minutes per week).
- Maintain healthy weight.
- Limit alcohol and avoid smoking.
Special Considerations in Asia
- Japan and Korea: Strong national screening programs reduce mortality.
- China and India: Rising burden due to urban diets and low awareness.
- Southeast Asia: Increasing processed food consumption accelerates risks.
- Rural Areas: Limited access to colonoscopy hampers early detection.
Action Checklist for Colorectal Health
- Begin screening at 45 or earlier if high-risk.
- Eat a high-fiber diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
- Exercise regularly to maintain healthy body weight.
- Reduce intake of processed foods and alcohol.
- Quit smoking.
- Consult a doctor for any persistent bowel changes.
- Encourage family members with history of CRC to undergo screening.
Conclusion
Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable yet deadly cancers in Asia. With effective screening, lifestyle changes, and modern treatment options, survival rates can improve significantly. Raising awareness and increasing access to colonoscopy across Asia will be key to reducing the burden of colorectal cancer.
colorectal cancer Asia, colon cancer screening, colorectal cancer treatment
