Rising global colorectal cancer rates linked to lifestyle: Recognize the six vital symptoms

Alongside the escalating number of cases, there is a noticeable surge in the proportion of patients in advanced stages of the disease and a consequential increase in mortality rates across the world. Nevertheless, the danger posed by colorectal cancer is fundamentally dependent on the size of the tumor when diagnosed and treated.

Prevention is always better than cure - the earlier the cancer is detected, the more treatable it becomes, increasing the chances of a complete recovery.

In an interview with Express.uk, Dr. Oliver Warren, a specialist in colorectal surgery and a consultant surgeon at The Lister, a British hospital, identifies six symptoms of colorectal cancer. Recognizing these symptoms promptly and consulting with a doctor could potentially save lives.

The symptoms include:

• Blood in the stool may appear bright red or very dark, similar to tar. While less severe diseases, like hemorrhoids, might cause blood in the stool, it is a strong impetus for an immediate visit to a doctor, regardless of the cause.

• A change in bowel movement patterns lasting more than five days: Numerous factors can affect our intestines. Nevertheless, if you notice any unexplained change in the frequency or consistency of your bowel movements, you're advised to consult a doctor.

• Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite: These symptoms could be indicative of numerous diseases, with colorectal cancer being one of them.

• Unintended weight loss can be defined as a decrease of eleven pounds or more in six months or less, without any significant changes in lifestyle, explains Dr. Oliver Warren.

• Abdominal pain, specifically in the abdominal cavity or lower part of the pelvis.

• The presence of a palpable lump in the abdominal cavity or in the rectum.

Dr. Warren advises that noticing any of these symptoms should prompt an immediate visit to the doctor. There's no need to panic; there is a high likelihood of full recovery in many cases.