I’m sure you all have heard the news about one of our favourite superheroes @chadwickboseman. He passed away due to colorectal cancer at the age of 43. Even though colorectal cancer typically affects older population, the cases of those under the age of 50 are rising.

Colorectal Cancer is the 4th most common cancer in the UK. It is the most common cancer among men and the 2nd most common among women in Malaysia.
1 in 10 people diagnosed with colorectal cancer before the age of 50.

Colorectal cancer incidence and mortality rates are increasing in the young-onset population while decreasing in those >50.

According to 2018 Young Onset Colorectal Cancer Survey Report:
71% were diagnosed at a later stage (III or IV)
41% waited at least six months after experiencing symptoms before talking to a doctor
67% saw at least two physicians prior to a correct diagnosis

85% experienced anxiety or depression during or after treatment
64% said a medical professional did not talk to them about fertility preservation during diagnosis or treatment
62% experienced financial difficulties

The most common symptoms of young-onset colorectal cancer were constipation, blood in stool, bloating, rectal bleeding, and diarrhea.

What can you do?
Understand your family history
Be vigilant of signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer (check out my previous post)
Speak up if something is not right

You can read about signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer in my post here: https://www.instagram.com/p/CDlH1YOgY8Y/?igshid=4aowhj5iujgh

Cancer prevention recommendations:
Try to keep a healthy weight
Be physically active— walk more and sit less (Walk 30 minutes a-day, five days a week)

Eat whole grains, vegetables, fruits and pulses such as beans and lentils. Research evidence shows that eating mostly plant-based diet can reduce your risk of getting cancer.
Limit consumption of “Fast Foods” and other processed foods that are high in fat, starches, sugars.

Limit consumption of red and processed meat such as beef or lamb. If you eat red meat, limit the consumption to no more than 3 portions a week or about 12-18 ounces (cooked). Eat little processed food.

Drink mostly water and unsweetened drinks. (Limit the amount of sugary drinks including boba tea!)
Limit alcohol consumption or be tee-total.

Do not use supplements for cancer prevention, meet your nutritional requirements through eating healthy diet. Whilst they are useful for specific cases, for cancer prevention, supplements don’t offer the same benefits as eating real food.

Breastfeed your baby if you are able. Babies who breastfeed maybe are less likely to develop obesity/overweight when they are adults. Breastfeeding can help reduce risk of breast cancer.

References:
National Cancer Institute State Cancer Profile
Cancer Research UK
Colorectal Cancer Alliance
American Institute for Cancer Research
Photo credit: Mayo Clinic