Beyond the Bottom Line: Uncovering the Hidden Dangers of a High-Risk Diet and the Colostomy Question

Among 33,000 colon cancer cases, 15,000 rectal cancer cases

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Research has shown that when processed meat products such as ham and sausage are grilled over an open fire, the amount of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which produce carcinogens in the body, increases significantly compared to raw products that are not heated. [사진=클립아트코리아]

The reason for the rapid increase in colon cancer (rectal cancer), which was rare in Korea 30 years ago, is attributed to changes in eating habits. Even now, there are people who eat grilled meat without even paying attention to the vegetables on the side. In particular, rectal cancer, which occurs close to the anus, is also greatly affected by a dislike of exercise and the habit of sitting for long periods of time. If the cancer has significantly invaded the anus, a colostomy should also be considered. Let’s learn more about colon cancer and rectal cancer.

Cancer in the rectum connected to the anus… colon cancer 3only3Rectal cancer per thousand 1only5appointment

According to national cancer registration statistics released in 2023, 32,751 new patients with colon cancer were identified in Korea in 2021 alone. The number of patients is so large that it competes with thyroid cancer for first or second place among all cancers. Among colon cancers, there are 15,065 patients with rectal cancer connected to the anus. There are 9,331 men and 5,734 women. By age group, those in their 60s accounted for the largest portion at 25.1%, followed by those in their 50s at 22.1% and those in their 70s at 17.6%.

The rectum is the area that connects the colon (most of the large intestine) and the anus. It is named so because, unlike other parts of the large intestine, it is straight and not curved. The rectum serves to temporarily store stool before excretion through the anus. When stool fills the rectum, you feel the urge to defecate and have a bowel movement.

Why is there so much colorectal cancer, which was rare??… The habit of sitting for long periods of time also has a big impact.

The reason for the rapid increase in colon cancer (rectal cancer), which was rare in Korea 30 years ago, is attributed to changes in eating habits. According to data from the National Cancer Information Center, if you continue to eat foods high in animal fat or saturated fat, or enjoy red meat (pork, beef, etc.) or processed meat products (sausage, ham, bacon), the risk of developing colon cancer and rectal cancer increases. In addition, insufficient intake of vegetables, fruits and whole grains high in dietary fiber, and the habit of grilling or frying meat are also risk factors.

In particular, rectal cancer is greatly affected by a dislike of exercise and the habit of sitting for long periods of time. Physical activity – Exercise promotes intestinal peristalsis, which reduces the time it takes for stool to pass through the intestines. The time that carcinogens in feces come into contact with the intestinal mucosa decreases. Research has shown that people who work a lot or enjoy leisure activities have a relatively low risk of developing colon and rectal cancer. Age over 50, adenomatous polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, heredity, obesity, drinking, smoking, and previous exposure to pelvic radiation are also risk factors.

As the cancer progresses, blood appears in the stool.… There may be no pain until the end.

Rectal cancer has almost no symptoms in the early stages. As cancer progresses, blood appears in the stool. Changes in bowel habits are noticeable. Constipation may become worse or may be accompanied by diarrhea. There is a feeling that feces remain after defecation. Generally, there is no pain until the terminal stage. Stools that are thinner than before, abdominal discomfort (abdominal pain-abdominal distension), loss of weight or muscle strength, fatigue, loss of appetite, indigestion, nausea and vomiting may also occur.

When cancer invades the anal sphincter… Should I worry about colostomy?

Surgery is the main treatment for rectal cancer. However, if the cancer has progressed so much that it has invaded the anal sphincter or it is judged impossible to preserve anal function, abdominoperineal resection is usually performed. This is a surgery that removes the perineum between the abdomen and the anus, excises part of the rectum and colon where the cancer is located, and turns the end of the remaining colon into a colostomy, which is the discharge passage for feces. This is a topic that both doctors and patients worry about a lot.

To prevent rectal cancer, controlling high-calorie and high-fat foods, consuming dietary fiber, and physical activity mentioned above are helpful. Especially if you have a family history, you should pay attention to your intestinal health, such as having regular colonoscopies even when you are young.

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