March is dedicated to raising awareness of colorectal cancer. At the Zithaklinik of the Hôpitaux Robert Schuman, an awareness day was held as part of ‘Blue March’ on Tuesday.
Prevention and early detection are particularly important for this type of cancer. Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in Luxembourg and is also among the deadliest.
A total of six stands were set up in the hospital’s entrance area. One of them featured a large-scale reconstruction of the colon, allowing visitors to walk through it and observe the different stages of polyps.
According to surgeon Dr Daniel Léonard, these polyps are what can develop into cancer. He explained that people do not notice these growths, as they cause no symptoms.
Over time, however, they can gradually increase in size and eventually become cancerous, he added.
Colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths and can affect both men and women. If detected early, it can be cured in nine out of ten cases. For screening, the Ministry of Health and Social Security recommends the fecal immunochemical test (FIT) for men and women aged 45 to 74.
Last year, more than 91,000 people were invited to take part in the programme, but only around one third completed the test. The procedure is simple, and the Ministry of Health has shared an awareness video explaining how to use it.
If the FIT test result is positive, further examinations are required, such as a colonoscopy, which many people are apprehensive about. Dr Véronique Wagner, director of Patient Care of the Visceral Oncology Department at Hôpitaux Robert Schuman, reassures patients that the procedure is nothing to fear.
She stressed that various options are available to reduce anxiety, including sedation or medication to help patients relax, ensuring the examination is as comfortable as possible.
Early detection is crucial, as those who have had colorectal cancer must undergo regular check-ups for the rest of their lives.
