Recognizing the critical importance of early detection and appropriate treatment planning for colorectal cancer, a significant event was held throughout March as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. The Medipol Health Group organized a “Colorectal Cancer Awareness Panel” at the Medipol Mega University Hospital Conference Hall.
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The panel was moderated by General Surgery Specialist Prof. Dr. Mustafa Celalettin Haskal, with contributions from Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine Specialist Prof. Dr. Yılmaz Bilgiç, Radiation Oncology Specialist Assoc. Dr. Ayşe Yıldırım Altınok, Medical Oncology Specialist Assoc. Dr. Atakan Topçu, and Nuclear Medicine Specialist Dr. Öğr. Üyesi Tansel Çakır. Experts discussed a range of crucial topics, from colorectal cancer screening methods to the latest treatment approaches, offering perspectives from various disciplines.
HEALTHY LIFESTYLE IS IMPORTANT FOR CANCER PREVENTION
Highlighting the significant role of lifestyle in cancer prevention, Prof. Haskal stated, “Especially nutrition and regular exercise are very important. Consuming an average of 1.5 to 2 liters of water is quite important for the body. This proves necessary to eat fiber-rich foods and avoid animal-based diets as much as possible. A sedentary lifestyle poses a risk for many diseases.” This underscores the importance of preventative measures in reducing cancer risk.
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CLOSED METHOD PROVIDES ADVANTAGES IN COLON AND RECTUM CANCER SURGERIES
Addressing surgical methods used in colon and rectum cancer, Prof. Haskal explained, “In some cases, patients may require a ‘stoma’ – a bag application. This situation may vary depending on the location of the tumor, especially in the rectal area. In many cases, the bag is temporary.”
“Currently, patients experience less pain, can get up and moving sooner, and return to their daily lives more quickly with closed-method surgeries. While the recovery period is longer with open surgeries, the length of hospital stay can be reduced to an average of 5–7 days with closed surgery. Early mobilization of patients after surgery and gradual resumption of feeding positively affect the recovery process,” he added.
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AGE LIMIT LOWERED TO 45
Emphasizing the importance of screening for colon cancer, Prof. Bilgiç noted, “In recent years, the age for colonoscopy screening has been lowered. We now recommend screening starting at age 45, rather than 50. Individuals with a family history of colon cancer are at higher risk.” This change in recommendation reflects evolving understanding of the disease and the benefits of earlier detection.
“During a colonoscopy, if a polyp is detected, its size and spread are examined, and a treatment plan is made accordingly. We similarly determine the timing of the next screening based on this. A sedentary lifestyle, a diet poor in fiber and rich in fat, obesity, and family history are important risk factors for colon cancer,” he explained.
RADIOTHERAPY BEFORE RECTUM CANCER SURGERY
Assoc. Dr. Altınok explained that the treatment process for rectum cancer often involves planning before surgery, stating, “Radiotherapy is used to shrink the tumor. We first evaluate patients in detail and create a treatment plan based on the stage of the disease. With the radiotherapy we apply before surgery, we aim to reduce the size of the tumor.”
“This allows the surgical procedure to be performed more controlled and with a smaller incision. We prepare the treatment process with computer-assisted planning. The area to be irradiated is determined in detail and the procedure is completed quickly. Radiotherapy is effective only in the targeted area. Some side effects may occur, but they are often at a level that patients can tolerate and patients can largely continue their daily lives during the treatment process,” she said.
HIGH CHANCE OF TREATMENT IN EARLY STAGE OF COLON CANCER
Assoc. Dr. Topçu stated that the success rate of treatment is quite high when colon cancer is detected in its early stages, noting, “The disease is among the most common cancers worldwide. Thanks to screening methods, the disease can be detected in its early stages. Colon cancer can be completely controlled with surgery alone when detected early. Screening programs are of great importance. In stage 1 disease, chemotherapy is usually not required. In stage 2, additional treatment may be necessary in some patients. In more advanced stages, targeted smart drugs may also be included in the treatment options, along with chemotherapy. Chemotherapy methods used in colorectal cancer treatment have become more manageable today. Patients must undergo the treatment process under the control of a physician.”
PET SCANS CAN BE GUIDING IN DIAGNOSIS
Nuclear Medicine Specialist Dr. Öğr. Üyesi Tansel Çakır stated that imaging methods used in the evaluation of cancer diseases can provide important information, adding that the radiation dose given in PET scans is generally at low levels.
Dr. Çakır emphasized the need to avoid unnecessary radiation exposure in children, stating, “The radiation doses given in these scans are quite low, but even so, it is necessary to be very careful in pediatric patients. If there is an alternative care option, it may be preferable for another family member to be present during the scan.”
Dr. Çakır noted that the issue of radiation should be evaluated very sensitively in pregnant women, stating that imaging methods are carefully planned when necessary.
