Colon cancer: Detected early, usually easily curable

Colon cancer is the second most common cancer in Germany, both in women and men. Every year, more than 62.000 people are newly diagnosed with

Colon cancer. Almost 26.000 patients die from it every year.

Colon cancer is the second most common cancer in Germany, both in women and men. Every year, more than 62.000 people are newly diagnosed with colon cancer. Almost 26.000 patients die from it every year. “But many of these cases could be avoided! colon cancer If detected early, there is generally a very good chance of recovery,” says Dr. Reinhold Lunow, internist and medical director of the Bornheim practice clinic.

 
prevention from 50, risk groups earlier

From the age of 50, people with statutory health insurance in Germany are also entitled to an annual colon cancer screening test in the form of a rapid test. The patient's stool is examined for invisible (occult) blood, which can be an initial symptom of malignant colon polyps. A cancerscreening of the large intestine by means of a complete colonoscopy is possible from the age of 55. People who have a hereditary predisposition can take advantage of the services earlier.

 “However, far too few insured persons make use of these useful health insurance benefits. In this endoscopic examination, changes in the intestine, such as colon polyps that are still benign (see figure), but which are possible precancerous stages, can be easily identified and treated immediately during the examination. colonoscopy remove. Patients should take advantage of this opportunity,” says Dr. Lunow.

 
false Nutrition is one of the risk factors

The causes of colon cancer are varied. In addition to smoking, alcohol and a genetic predisposition, an unbalanced diet containing too much meat and obesity play a major role in the development of colon tumors. "We can therefore only advise people to undergo legally recommended examinations for early detection of cancer and regular health checks Early detection prevents a lot of pain and suffering. We also advise you during the Cancer screening also with regard to a preventive, ‘gut-healthy’ diet,” emphasizes the medical director of the practice clinic continue.

 
If you have digestive problems, go to Doctor

If you have recurrent or persistent digestive problems such as alternating constipation or diarrhea, gastrointestinal pain, unexplained weight loss or constant general fatigue and tiredness, you should consult an internist or your family doctor to clarify the complaints. The practice clinic Bornheim, located near Cologne, Bonn and Düsseldorf, is at your disposal with all its knowledge and modern diagnostics.

Image sources: Sebastian Kaulitzki/Fotolia.com / www.internisten-im-netz.de