What is colorectal cancer ?
Colorectal cancer is a malignant tumour that grows in the colon or the rectum. Most colorectal cancer starts with the growth of polyps in the lining of the colon.
Can we prevent it?
Not all polyps may develop into colorectal cancer; the type that may develop into cancer may take 10 to 15 years to develop into colorectal cancer.
Regular screening is vital for early detection of polyps which can be removed via a colonoscopy procedure before they have the chance to turn into colorectal cancer.
We can also try to modify our risk with lifestyle, dietary changes, physical activity and medication.
What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer?
Most polyps cause no symptoms. Symptoms associated with colorectal cancer may include:
- Bleeding in the rectum/blood in the stool
- A change in bowel habits/narrow stools
- Cramps and discomfort in the abdomen
- Anaemia
- Fatigue
- Feeling that your bowel is not empty
- Unexplained weight loss
Can it be treated when detected early?
If detected at an early stage, colorectal cancer can be treated with surgery.
Free colon cancer screening at selected Mediclinic facilities throughout March.
Get your vouchers and stool test from the laboratory at one of the following units in Dubai:
Mediclinic City Hospital
7 am – 8:30 pm, 7 days a week
Mediclinic Parkview Hospital
7.30am – 7.30pm, 7 days a week
Mediclinic Welcare Hospital
Sat-Thur 7.30am – 9pm
Fri: 7.30am – 6pm
Mediclinic Dubai Mall
Mon-Sat 8am – 8pm
Sun 10am – 7pm
Eligibility: For those 40 years and above, those who have signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer, or have a family history of colorectal cancer