Colon most cancers in girls – signs which might be simple to overlook

Fatigue could also be attributed to menstrual blood loss or iron deficiency, whereas stomach bloating and modifications in bowel habits could also be mistaken for hormonal modifications, irritable bowel syndrome, or diet-related signs, stated Clin Asst Prof Wong.

“Additionally, some women may delay seeking medical attention due to caregiving responsibilities or the assumption that they are too young to be at risk,” she added.

Dr Ong famous that almost three in 5 sufferers, each female and male, are identified at a late stage (Stage 3 or 4). He recollects a 39-year-old affected person who had persistent fatigue for over a yr, and was later identified with Stage 3 most cancers.

“She attributed the fatigue to her heavy menses, and didn’t undergo further evaluation for her anaemia,” stated Dr Ong. The affected person sought assist after she saved vomiting from a bowel blockage, and needed to endure emergency surgical procedure.

Symptoms to look out for embrace unexplained weight reduction, persistent fatigue (typically linked to anaemia), modifications in bowel habits or stool consistency, blood in stools or rectal bleeding. There could also be normal stomach discomfort, like bloating, fullness, cramps or gasoline.

“In general, pay attention to symptoms that are new, persistent, keep getting worse or unusually severe,” Clin Asst Prof Wong stated.

MAKE COLORECTAL SCREENING PART OF YOUR WOMEN’S HEALTH ROUTINE

Clin Asst Prof Wong suggested girls to include colorectal screening as a part of their routine preventive well being, alongside breast and cervical most cancers screening, relatively than as one thing separate.