Understanding the Causes and Symptoms of Colon Cancer, the Disease Affecting Comedian Nurul Qomar

Kapanlagi.com - The Indonesian entertainment world mourns deeply over the passing of talented comedian, Nurul Qomar, who passed away on Wednesday (1/8) at 5:21 PM WIB. Qomar's departure leaves a profound sorrow for his fans and colleagues. He was known to be undergoing intensive care at RSUD Tangerang due to colon cancer that had spread to the liver.

Colon cancer, or known as colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that originates from benign polyps in the digestive tract. If not detected and treated early, these polyps can develop into malignant ones. Unfortunately, this cancer often does not show symptoms in its early stages, making it one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide.

There are various factors that can increase the risk of developing colon cancer, ranging from an unhealthy diet to a less active lifestyle. Additionally, genetic factors and a history of certain diseases also play a role in the development of this disease. Therefore, it is important for us to understand the causes and symptoms to watch out for, so that preventive measures can be taken more effectively.

Let us take a look at a complete explanation regarding the main causes, symptoms to pay attention to, diagnostic steps, treatment methods, and ways to prevent colon cancer. Our health is the most important thing, and knowledge is the first step to taking care of ourselves.

1. Main Causes of Colorectal Cancer

Unhealthy lifestyle patterns, such as consuming low-fiber and high-fat foods from red meat, are among the main triggers of colorectal cancer. Smoking habits and excessive alcohol consumption also increase the risk, while a sedentary lifestyle and obesity further worsen the situation.

In addition to these factors, a family health history of members with colorectal cancer, polyps, or inflammatory bowel disease can increase the likelihood of someone contracting this disease. Not only that, those over 50 years old, as well as individuals with diabetes and obesity, are also in a more vulnerable group, making attention to gut health even more important.

2. Symptoms to Watch Out For

Early symptoms of the disease are often undetected, but there are several signs that should not be ignored, such as changes in bowel habits, diarrhea, constipation, or even blood in the stool. As the disease progresses to advanced stages, the symptoms that arise can be very concerning, such as drastic weight loss, persistent fatigue, and continuous discomfort in the abdomen.

In more severe conditions, cancer can spread to other organs, triggering serious symptoms such as jaundice, headaches, or shortness of breath. Therefore, it is important not to underestimate these symptoms; early detection can increase the survival rate by up to 90%, according to data from WHO. If you experience suspicious symptoms, consult a doctor immediately for appropriate treatment.

3. Diagnostic Steps

In the initial health examination steps, the doctor will explore the family medical history as well as the symptoms experienced by the patient, followed by a physical examination that involves abdominal palpation to identify any abnormal masses.

Next, supporting tests such as a colonoscopy—where a small camera is inserted through the anus to examine the condition of the large intestine—and a biopsy to take tissue samples for detecting cancer cells, become an important part of this process. If necessary, the doctor will proceed with further tests such as a CT scan, X-ray, or blood tests to evaluate the spread of cancer and the function of other organs.

4. Available Treatments

In the fight against colon cancer, the first step taken is surgery to remove the infected part of the intestine, which can vary from the removal of a portion of the large intestine to the creation of a temporary stoma, depending on the stage of the disease.

After that, patients typically undergo chemotherapy that utilizes drugs to kill cancer cells, as well as radiotherapy that uses radiation for the same purpose; these two methods are often combined for more optimal results.

Additionally, there are also innovative targeted therapies that carefully attack cancer cells without damaging the surrounding healthy tissue, with drugs such as bevacizumab and cetuximab being the mainstays in the fight against this disease.

5. How to Prevent Colorectal Cancer

A transformation to a healthy lifestyle is now the main focus! Start by filling your plate with fiber-rich foods such as fresh fruits, colorful vegetables, and whole grains, while it is advisable to limit the consumption of red meat and alcohol.

Don’t forget the importance of regular exercise, as physical activity not only helps you achieve an ideal weight but also lowers the risk of cancer and improves digestive health.

And to further maintain health, for those aged 45 and above, don’t miss out on having a colonoscopy every decade or a stool test every year; these steps are crucial for early detection of any polyps or cancer cells that may be lurking.

6. What are the main causes of colon cancer?

One of the main causes of problems in the colon is genetic mutations that occur in the tissue. This phenomenon is often triggered by an unhealthy lifestyle, genetic factors, and aging.

7. What are the early symptoms of colon cancer?

Watch for early signs that may indicate serious health issues: changes in bowel habits, the presence of blood in the stool, and persistent discomfort in the abdominal area. Do not underestimate these symptoms, as they could be signals that your body needs more attention!

8. How is colon cancer detected?

To accurately detect the disease, we have a variety of advanced methods, ranging from colonoscopy, which allows doctors to look directly into the colon, to biopsies that take tissue samples for more in-depth analysis. Moreover, supporting examinations such as CT scans are also powerful tools in revealing overall health conditions.

9. Can colon cancer be prevented?

Of course! By adopting a healthy lifestyle, exercising regularly, and undergoing regular screenings, we can maintain our body's health and prevent various diseases.

(kpl/srr)