Colorectal cancer, also called bowel cancer, affects the colon or rectum and is one of the most prevalent cancer types in the UK (1). In the UK, over 268,000 people have been diagnosed with this disease, with around 43,000 new diagnoses annually (2). The good news is that ongoing research is improving outcomes for patients, from prevention to treatment and beyond. Screening is crucial for preventing and detecting colorectal cancer. The Scottish Bowel Screening Programme provides free screening every two years to men and women aged 50-74 using a simple home test kit that checks for blood in the stool. A positive screening test requires further testing to confirm the diagnosis (3).
Lifestyle factors, such as diet and exercise, can influence the prevention and management of colorectal cancer. A high-fiber, plant-based diet, and regular exercise can help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer and improve patient outcomes (1,4,5). NHS Grampian supports cancer research through various ongoing studies. Visit our "Trials Near You” page to learn more about current research trials, and speak with your doctor if interested in participating (1).
Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month raises awareness about the importance of screening, early detection, and advances in treatment and research. Ongoing research holds promise for improved prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of colorectal cancer (2,4,5). Increased investment in research and awareness about screening and prevention can help make colorectal cancer a less common and less deadly disease in the future.
REFERENCES:
1. NHS, Bowel cancer. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/bowel-cancer/what-is-bowel-cancer/
2. Bowel Cancer UK. Available at: https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/about-bowel-cancer/bowel-cancer/
3. NHS Inform, Bowel screening in Scotland. Available at: https://www.nhsinform.scot/healthy-living/screening/bowel-screening
4. Cancer Research UK, Risks and causes of bowel cancer. Available at: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/bowel-cancer/risks-causes
5. World Cancer Research Fund International, Colorectal cancer. Available at: https://www.wcrf.org/diet-activity-and-cancer/cancer-types/colorectal-cancer/