Colorectal Cancer Can Be Prevented: Start With Screening

Colorectal cancer occurs when cells in the colon or rectum begin to grow uncontrollably, with the possibility of spreading to other parts of the body. This condition affects older adults more often, but can occur at any age, making awareness and understanding crucial for everyone.

Listening to your body: signs and symptoms to watch for

Colorectal cancer, like many cancers, may take months or even years to reveal symptoms. Stay informed and vigilant for the following signs:

Frequent diarrhea

Constipation

Blood in the stool (poop)

Unresolved or ongoing discomfort in the belly area

Tiredness

Unexpected weight loss

Should you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical advice promptly. Early action can be lifesaving.

Understanding the statistics: why it matters

In 2024, 6,858 people in Quebec were diagnosed with colorectal cancer, with 2,600 succumbing to the disease, representing a mortality rate of approximately 38%, as reported by the Registre québécois du cancer.

Risk factors

Age (risk increases with age, especially after age 50)
Family history and genetics
Personal history of colorectal cancer and inflammatory bowel disease
Obesity
Type 2 diabetes
Low physical activity
High consumption of alcohol
Smoking commercial tobacco
Diet and food insecurity
Delayed or limited access to screening services

What can I do to limit the risk of colorectal cancer?

Take charge of your health by adopting these healthy habits:

Limit alcohol consumption.
Maintain a nutritious, balanced diet by increasing your intake of high-fibre foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains.
Limit your consumption of processed and red meats.
Stay active by engaging in regular exercise, like walking.
Avoid using commercial tobacco products.
Get screening for colorectal cancer when you become eligible.

Screening: protect your health with early action

Screening can identify early signs of cancer before symptoms appear. In Quebec, asymptomatic adults aged 50 to 74 who have no personal and family history of colorectal cancer are offered a stool test every two years. If you are 75 years old or older, talk with your healthcare team to decide whether continuing this screening is right for you.

People aged 40-74 with a family history of colorectal cancer, but no personal history or symptoms, should consult with their healthcare provider about which test is appropriate for them, FIT or colonoscopy.

Early detection and diagnosis

Early detection can greatly improve treatment effectiveness and increases the chances of a successful outcome. If a screening test shows abnormal cells or possible signs of colorectal cancer, a colonoscopy and biopsy will be performed to make the diagnosis and determine the stage of the cancer.

Treatment

Once colorectal cancer is confirmed through a biopsy, your medical team will work with you to develop a tailored treatment plan based on the stage of the cancer. Treatment options may include:

Surgery: To remove the tumour
Chemotherapy or radiation: To destroy cancer cells
Immunotherapy: To help the body’s immune system kill cancer cells
Clinical trials

Possible side effects

Surgery
- Discomfort, changes in bowel movements and digestive issues
- Loss of appetite

Chemotherapy
- - Fatigue
  - Nausea, vomiting
  - Hair loss
  - Rash
  - Flu-like symptoms
  - Loss of appetite
  - Emotional stress

Radiation therapy
- - Fatigue
  - Digestive issues
  - Hair loss
  - Loss of appetite
  - Emotional stress

Immunotherapy
- - Fatigue
- Inflammation (rash)

Remember, understanding your options and advocating for your health are empowering. You are not alone in this journey.

Identify your support system

Lean on:

Community (family, friends, elders)
Health workers
Support groups
Traditional healing practices, but talk to your healthcare team before using any traditional medicines

Other useful resources