Colonoscopy is an essential ally in the prevention of bowel cancer
The Women's Hospital of Pará emphasizes the importance of the exam, recommended from the age of 45, even in the absence of symptoms
The Women's Hospital of Pará (HMPA) warns about the importance of colonoscopy as the main exam for the prevention and early detection of bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer. According to the Cancer Foundation, the disease is among the five most common worldwide.
Colonoscopy is considered the "gold standard" for identifying changes in the large intestine, such as polyps, which can be removed before they develop into malignant tumors. Additionally, the exam allows for the early diagnosis of inflammatory bowel diseases and the investigation of persistent symptoms, such as bleeding and weight loss.
The specialist in digestive surgery and endoscopist at HMPA, Renan Lauria, emphasizes that colonoscopy is essential even for asymptomatic individuals. "From the age of 45, everyone should undergo routine colonoscopy. Depending on the patient's history, the exam should be repeated every five to ten years," he explained.
Warning signs for bowel cancer
- Weight loss and anemia
- Blood in the stool
- Change in bowel habits
- Very thin or ribbon-like stools
- Abdominal pain
- Presence of a mass (tumor) in the abdomen
Risk factors
- Excessive consumption of red and ultra-processed meats (sausage, bacon, ham, mortadella, sausage, salami, smoked meats, turkey breast)
- Obesity
- Abusive alcohol use
- Smoking
- Inflammatory bowel diseases (ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease)
- Advanced age.
Service: To access the services of the Women's Hospital of Pará, it is necessary to seek a Basic Health Unit (UBS) or another reference unit in the municipality of residence. It is also possible to obtain a referral through the Usinas da Paz. HMPA is located at Avenida Gentil Bittencourt, No. 2175, São Brás neighborhood, in Belém.
