Colorectal cancer diagnosis

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in Western industrialized countries. Annually, in Germany some 70 000 people die from bowel cancer, about 40 percent of the disease. Diet (including high meat intake, alcohol) and genetic factors contribute significantly to the development of colorectal cancer.

Cancer tumors grow very slowly. A mature tumor may already up to ten or 15 years have been present in the gut. Unlike other, more rapidly progressing cancers, the cure rates are at an early close to 100 percent. Because cancer causes no symptoms in the early stages, is from the 50th Age of an annual screening recommended and covered by health insurance.

Family members are already ill with cancer, it can be determined by a molecular genetic test to determine whether an increased risk. In these cases, Vorsorguntersuchungen advisable in younger people. Symptoms such as frequent constipation, cramps, or recurrent diarrhea or blood in the stool can, but do not be indications of a cancer and should be investigated in all cases by a doctor.