New Brunswick, N.J. – Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women, and approximately 1 in 26 women will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer in her lifetime. Awareness about risk factors and early detection are crucial in preventing and effectively treating colorectal cancer.
Why Learning about Colorectal Cancer Matters for Women
Colorectal cancer does not discriminate by gender, but women may experience unique challenges in recognizing the symptoms. For instance, many early warning signs, such as changes in bowel habits, bloating and fatigue, can be mistaken for common gastrointestinal issues or menopause-related changes. This may lead to delayed diagnoses and more advanced disease at the time of detection.
“Women often assume their symptoms are related to diet, stress, or hormonal changes, which can delay seeking medical attention,” says Brendan Scully, MD colorectal cancer surgeon in the Gastrointestinal Oncology Program at Rutgers Cancer Institute and RWJBarnabas Health. “The earlier we detect colorectal cancer, the more treatment options are available, including minimally invasive surgical techniques that lead to better outcomes and faster recovery with a higher chance of cure.”
Risk Factors for Women
Certain factors can increase a woman’s risk of developing colorectal cancer, including:
- Age: particularly after 50
- Family history: A close relative with colorectal cancer or genetic syndromes associated with the development of colorectal cancer
- Diet: A diet high in red and processed meats
- Lifestyle: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and lack of physical activity
- Medical conditions: Inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis or a history of colon polyps
Signs and Symptoms Women Should Watch For
- Changes in bowel habits: Persistent diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool lasting more than a few days
- Rectal bleeding: Presence of bright red blood in the stool or dark tarry stools
- Abdominal discomfort: Cramping, pain, or bloating in the lower abdomen
- Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight without changes in diet or exercise.
- Fatigue and weakness: Persistent tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest.
- Unexplained Anemia on Labwork: Low blood levels on labs are often seen prior to the onset of symptoms.
“Colorectal cancer symptoms can be subtle at first, but if something feels off, don’t ignore it,” advises Dr. Scully. “Even small changes in bowel habits or unexplained weight loss warrant a discussion with your doctor.”
The Importance of Screening and Early Detection
Early detection of colorectal cancer dramatically improves treatment outcomes. The U.S. Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends that people begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45. Those with a family history of the colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, genetic syndromes that may predispose to colorectal cancer or other risk factors should speak with their doctor about screening at an earlier age.
“Most patients, approximately 70 percent, will not have any symptoms early in the disease, which highlights the importance of screening prior to the onset of symptoms,” says Dr. Scully. “Those with symptoms, such as rectal bleeding or changes in bowel habits should undergo diagnostic colonoscopy, even if not at the age for screening.”
Surgical Treatment and Advances in Care
RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Cancer Institute, the state’s only National Cancer Institute (NCI)-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, is a statewide resource in advancing our understanding about colorectal cancer. Request a colorectal cancer screening appointment: rwjbh.org/colonscreening.
Image Credit: Freepik