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Colorectal cancer ranks as the third most prevalent cancer globally, affecting the large intestine of the digestive system, according to the American Cancer Society. Each year, about 154,270 individuals in the United States receive a diagnosis, and around 53,000 succumb to the disease, making it the second most common cause of cancer-related mortality globally.
A significant concern is that symptoms of colorectal cancer can easily be confused with everyday stress-related stomach issues, complicating early detection. Alarmingly, the incidence of this cancer is rising, particularly among women. In 2022, there were 1.8 million new cases, prompting healthcare professionals to recommend initiating routine screenings at 45 years of age instead of the previous guideline of 50.
March serves as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, providing an ideal opportunity to educate oneself about the risk factors and screening options available. Dr. Susan Zhang, the Global Colorectal Cancer Development Lead at Pfizer’s Oncology division, shared insights into the ongoing efforts to foster innovation and improve patient outcomes in the fight against colorectal cancer.
Understanding how to safeguard against colorectal cancer is crucial for health management.
1. Screening Age Ignores Many Millennial Women
While the routine screening age for colorectal cancer has been updated from 50 to 45, women under this age group face challenges as there are few standards for screening unless specific risk factors are identified. Adults below 50 are twice as likely to receive a colorectal cancer diagnosis and four times as likely to be diagnosed with rectal cancer compared to those born in 1950.
Moreover, women are experiencing an upsurge in colorectal cancer cases relative to previous years. A significant number of these cases remain undetected until the cancer has metastasized, complicating treatment options and adversely affecting prognosis, as nearly 20% of colorectal cancer patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage.
2. Barriers to Early Screening and Diagnosis for Millennial Women
Dr. Zhang points out that a considerable hurdle for early detection is the limited awareness among young women about their susceptibility to colorectal cancer.
“Many young women overlook their risk factors, which can cause delays in seeking medical advice,” she explains. Symptoms like abdominal discomfort, altered bowel habits, and fatigue are frequently dismissed as minor issues or linked to gynecological problems, hindering timely medical evaluations.
Additional obstacles include insufficient screening guidelines, high healthcare costs, lack of knowledge regarding family medical history, and a general reluctance to discuss bowel health issues. There is also a tendency among some healthcare providers to underestimate the symptoms presented by younger patients, further complicating access to timely care.
Consequently, individuals often resort to self-education, leading to a potential cycle of avoidance. The mindset of “I’m young and healthy; my symptoms will pass” can be particularly dangerous.
3. Awareness of Risk Factors and Self-Advocacy
As the prevalence of colorectal cancer among young women continues to rise, it is essential to understand both the risk factors and the warning signs associated with the disease.
According to the American Cancer Society, notable risk factors include a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, specific genetic conditions such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), and chronic inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Lifestyle choices associated with an increased risk include obesity, inactivity, a diet rich in red or processed meats, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption.
Gastrointestinal issues are often linked to stress, even if they mirror symptoms indicative of cancer. Therefore, it is crucial to remain vigilant.
Dr. Zhang recommends consulting your physician if you experience:
- Indigestion, persistent abdominal discomfort, or any change in bowel habits for an extended period
- Gastrointestinal bleeding, including blood in stools or vomit
- Frequent constipation or diarrhea, or noticeable changes in stool appearance
- Unexplained weight loss or a significant shift in appetite coupled with abdominal pain
- Severe fatigue without clear explanation, which may signal an underlying health issue
If any of these symptoms resonate with your experience and you fall within an at-risk group, consider discussing early screening options with your healthcare provider, which may include non-invasive stool tests or a colonoscopy. Taking proactive measures can be a matter of life and death.
4. Innovations in Screening and Ongoing Clinical Trials
Fortunately, healthcare providers and researchers are actively pursuing advancements in the management and treatment of colorectal cancer. With the advent of genetic profiling tests, medical professionals can identify specific tumor mutations, facilitating more personalized treatment strategies. While such tailored approaches have been standard in lung and breast cancers for years, colorectal cancer is now making significant strides.
The Pfizer Oncology research team is at the forefront of these advancements, continuing to develop the next generation of cancer treatments. Pfizer has a long-standing commitment to innovating therapies for challenging cancers, assisting patients in improving their quality of life.
5. Promoting Early Detection and Public Awareness
The prospect of cancer can be daunting, but awareness can save lives.
This was exemplified in the experience of Lily Hickey, a mother and healthcare professional at Pfizer. After noticing discomfort in her side, she initially attributed it to recent childbirth. A subsequent referral for a colonoscopy led to a stage 3 colorectal cancer diagnosis. In response, her medical team performed emergency surgery to remove the tumor and lymph nodes and initiated chemotherapy to prevent further spread.
A year and a half later, Lily successfully overcame cancer. Her journey serves as a vital reminder that colorectal cancer can affect anyone, and awareness is crucial for detection and treatment.
“Navigating the healthcare system to advocate for early screening as a young woman can be challenging, but it is crucial if you have identified risk factors or concerning symptoms,” Dr. Zhang advises. “If you feel your healthcare provider is not addressing your concerns adequately, seek a second opinion until you find someone who listens.”
For more insight into advocating for your colorectal health during Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, explore Pfizer’s resources.
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