Title: Increasing Cases of Colorectal Cancer Among Young People Raise Concerns in Israel
Introduction
Colorectal cancer, a prevalent malignancy in Israel, is becoming increasingly common among younger individuals worldwide. This trend is believed to be driven by factors such as obesity and sedentary lifestyles. In response to the rising numbers, the recommended age for colonoscopy screening has been lowered in the United States, and health officials in Israel are also considering a similar change. A recent study has shed light on early signs of the disease that are often overlooked by physicians.
Surge in Cases Among Young Adults
Recent data indicates that the number of colorectal cancer cases in the United States has doubled between 1995 and 2019 among patients under the age of 55. Although Israel has not experienced such a drastic increase, there has been a noticeable rise in the number of young adults diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Gastroenterology experts in Israel emphasize the importance of recognizing the symptoms at an early stage to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment.
Study Identifies Early Symptoms
Researchers from the School of Medicine at Washington University in St. Louis conducted a study to identify early symptoms of colorectal cancer in patients diagnosed at a young age. The study, published in the journal of the American National Cancer Institute, included 5,075 individuals diagnosed with colorectal cancer under the age of 50. The researchers identified four key symptoms reported by patients up to two years before their cancer diagnosis: abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, persistent diarrhea, and iron-deficiency anemia.
Importance of Recognizing Symptoms
The study’s authors stress that these symptoms should not be disregarded by physicians. Professor Yin Cao from Washington University highlights the need for both doctors and patients to be aware of these symptoms and seek medical evaluation if they persist for more than a week without any clear cause. In Israel, many doctors associate these symptoms with benign conditions rather than colorectal cancer, leading to potential delays in diagnosis.
Call for Timely Medical Evaluation
Gastroenterology specialist Professor Revital Kariv from Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center urges general practitioners to consult with specialists and obtain guidance on further investigating these symptoms. She emphasizes that colorectal cancer can be a serious disease, and timely treatment is essential to prevent its progression and potential life-threatening consequences.
Colorectal Cancer in Israel
Colorectal cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in Israel, ranking as the second or third leading cause of cancer-related death among various population groups. While the disease primarily affects older adults, there has been an increase in the number of cases among people aged 20-44. This rise is attributed to factors like obesity and sedentary lifestyles.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Early detection of colorectal cancer is crucial for successful treatment. Routine screening methods in Israel include fecal occult blood tests, blood tests for anemia, and referrals to gastroenterology specialists for further evaluation, including colonoscopies. Surgery is the primary treatment option for most patients, resulting in complete recovery in the majority of cases.
Conclusion
The alarming increase in colorectal cancer cases among young adults in Israel raises concerns about the impact of obesity and sedentary lifestyles. While health officials consider lowering the age for colonoscopy screening, it is essential for both physicians and patients to recognize and address the early symptoms associated with the disease. By promoting awareness and timely medical evaluation, lives can be saved and the overall impact of colorectal cancer reduced in Israel and around the world.
NOTE: The information provided in this article is based on the given content and may not represent the most up-to-date data or medical recommendations.