Latest news with #colorectalCancer
Yahoo
13 hours ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Colorectal cancer isn't an 'old person's disease,' advocates warn. A stage 4 cancer survivor shares 5 things you should never do if you want to avoid the disease
Colorectal cancer is a serious health risk for many Canadians — including people under age 50. More than 25,200 people were diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2024, making it the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer in Canada last year. Now, advocates want all provinces and territories to lower the screening age for the disease to 45. "Our objective is to ensure that young Canadians do not ignore the signs and symptoms just because of their age and that they are aware of their family medical history and risk level, as we call on our provincial and territorial health ministries to lower the screening age for colorectal cancer throughout the country to 45," Barry Stein, president and CEO of Colorectal Cancer Canada, explains in a press release on Tuesday. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Contact a qualified medical professional before engaging in any physical activity, or making any changes to your diet, medication or lifestyle. The non-profit adds that colorectal cancer might be perceived as an "old person's disease," but shares that early-onset colorectal cancer is on the rise and that cancer doesn't care about your age. Most new cases still occur in people age 50 and above, but Canadians born after 1980 are two to two-and-a-half times more likely to be diagnosed with colorectal cancer before age 50 compared to earlier generations. According Colorectal Cancer Canada, 26 people die from the illness everyday on average, with around 69 people receiving a diagnosis daily. For 2024, it was estimated that 9,400 Canadians died from colorectal cancer, making up 11 per cent of all cancer deaths last year. Colorectal cancer cancer grows more slowly than some other cancer and can stay in the colon or rectum for months or even years. If left untreated, it can spread to other parts of the body, but if found early, colorectal cancer can often be cured. This is why Stein points out that colorectal cancer can be preventable through lifestyle choices, awareness of symptoms and early screening. In 1995, while juggling the demands of his legal career, Stein began noticing various concerning symptoms. Those included blood in his stool, migraines, abdominal pain and nausea, which he dismissed as related to stress. "I was turning 41 at the time and had no idea what cancer even was," Stein recalls in a previous interview with Yahoo Canada. "People didn't say that word so much in 1995, let alone colorectal cancer. These were symptoms that came and went, so I ignored them." It wasn't until he finally had a fecal occult blood test and colonoscopies that the diagnosis hit: Stage IV colorectal cancer, which had spread to his liver and lungs. Still, Stein stresses a person's health doesn't have to get to this point; he shares five things Canadians should and shouldn't do to help prevent colorectal cancer. Unexplained changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, persistent abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss or fatigue should never be symptoms you ignore. These signs might also be linked to other gastrointestinal conditions, including ulcers, Crohn's disease or hemorrhoids, according to the Colorectal Cancer Canada website. That means "just because you have these symptoms doesn't mean you have colon cancer," Stein adds. "But they are a reason to be checked out." Regular screenings are important because colorectal cancer often develops from precancerous polyps, or growths in the colon or rectum. Catching and removing these polyps early can prevent them from becoming cancerous. Starting at age 50, you should undergo routine fecal occult blood tests and colonoscopies. Even though everybody has the right to get screened starting at age 50, the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer states the "screening participation rate across the country is still below the national target of 60 per cent." Despite this, Colorectal Cancer Canada highlights that the screening guidelines have effectively reduced cancer rates in those over age 50, demonstrating their life-saving potential. However, there is a rise in cases among younger adults, particularly those with a family history of colorectal cancer, Stein notes. These individuals are often diagnosed at a later stage because they are not getting screened and health-care professionals may not suspect cancer at a young age. If you're under 50 and experiencing related symptoms, or have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, you may need to start screening early. "Speak to your doctor about your personal testing plan," the organization advises. The Foods That Fight Cancer program by Colorectal Cancer Canada recommends eating a diet rich in whole grains, fruits and vegetables. These foods are high in fibre, which helps keep the digestive system healthy and can lower the risk of colorectal cancer. In addition to these foods, the program advises limiting the intake of processed meats and red meat, which are associated with a higher risk of colorectal cancer. It also recommends reducing the amount of alcohol and sugary beverages you drink. Highly processed foods should be minimized as well. By making these dietary changes, the risk of developing colorectal cancer can be minimized, Stein points out. Incorporate regular exercise into your routine, as physical inactivity is a significant risk factor for colorectal cancer. Stein highlights, "Having a sedentary lifestyle, in other words, being a couch potato, is a risk factor." Staying active not only helps maintain a healthy weight but also reduces the risk of colorectal cancer. According to Colorectal Cancer Canada, regular physical activity can lower the risk by improving bowel function and reducing inflammation. Discuss your family history of colorectal cancer with a health-care provider so you understand the risk. If you have a first-degree relative — such as a parent, sibling or child — who's had colorectal cancer, your risk is higher. Shared genetics and lifestyle factors contribute to this increased risk, according to Colorectal Cancer Canada. Moreover, genetic syndromes like Lynch syndrome (hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer) can elevate your risk further. People with Lynch syndrome are more likely to develop colorectal cancer, often at a younger age. Other inherited conditions, like familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), which causes numerous polyps in the colon and rectum, also heighten the risk. "Your age and generic history of your family are risk factors that you can't control," Stein says, adding the goal is to focus on what can be controlled, like eating healthier foods and exercising. Prevention is often more straightforward than treatment, which can be invasive and challenging. As Stein states, "it's so much easier to prevent something (than to treat it)." "All you have to do is get a kit, poop in your toilet, send it to the lab with a little stick and you find out if it's positive," Stein explains. If it does turn out positive, you would then go for a colonoscopy so that the polyp can be located. "If there is a polyp, they remove it and you catch the cancer early. Otherwise, you go through what I went through, which is quite challenging, to say the least. And at worst, people die." By focusing on early screening and prevention, potential issues can be caught early before developing into cancer, ultimately saving lives and reducing the burden of treatment.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Colonoscopy Devices Market Size to Surpass USD 3.36 Billion by 2031, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.7%
NEW YORK, June 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- According to a new comprehensive report from The Insight Partners, the colonoscopy devices market is witnessing significant growth owing to the increasing prevalence of colorectal cancer and key technological advancements. The colonoscopy devices market analysis focuses on advancements such as robotic-assisted colonoscopy, virtual colonoscopy, and single-use colonoscopy devices that play a vital role in the market growth. The report runs an in-depth analysis of market trends, key players, and future opportunities. The report from The Insight Partners provides several stakeholders—including manufacturers of colonoscopes and visualization systems—with valuable insights to navigate this evolving market landscape and unlock new opportunities successfully. To explore the valuable insights in the Colonoscopy Devices Market report, you can easily download a sample PDF of the report - Overview of Report Findings 1. Market Growth: The colonoscopy devices market value is expected to reach US$ 3.36 billion by 2031 from US$ 2.30 billion in 2024; the market is anticipated to register a CAGR of 5.7% during 2025–2031. The market growth is attributed to the increasing prevalence of colorectal cancer, the aging population, and technological advancements. 2. Increasing Prevalence of Colorectal Cancer: Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer globally and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths. As awareness of the disease grows, there is a stronger emphasis on early detection, which is critical for improving survival rates. Colonoscopy remains the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening, offering the ability to detect and remove precancerous polyps during the procedure. With the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), recommending regular colorectal cancer screenings, especially for individuals aged 45 and older—there has been a noticeable rise in demand for colonoscopy procedures. This demand is fueling the need for advanced colonoscopy devices that offer greater accuracy, efficiency, and patient comfort. In developed and emerging markets, increased public health initiatives and screening programs are encouraging higher screening rates. Coupled with growing patient awareness and improved healthcare infrastructure, especially in aging populations more susceptible to colorectal cancer, the need for modern, reliable colonoscopy equipment is expanding. As a result, manufacturers are innovating to meet demand, driving sustained growth in the global colonoscopy devices market. 3. Technological Advancements: Technological innovations are improving diagnostic precision, procedural effectiveness, and patient comfort. High-definition (HD) imaging, narrow-band imaging (NBI), and 3D visualization technologies have enhanced the detection of small and flat lesions, resulting in earlier and more precise diagnoses of colorectal diseases such as cancer and polyps. Artificial intelligence (AI) based software, such as computer-aided detection (CADe), assists clinicians in detecting polyps during real-time procedures, reducing the chances of lesion miss and improving adenoma detection rates. FDA-approved AI software is being applied in clinical practice, a measure of the growing importance of AI software in endoscopic procedures. Other technologies include the creation of robotic-assisted colonoscopies, wireless capsule endoscopy, and disposable colonoscopes, which speak to infection control and provide more patient-friendly, cost-saving options. They are especially beneficial in outpatient and remote practice. Intelligent endoscopes with real-time data analytics and cloud connectivity are making procedures more efficient and documentation better. As medical practitioners look for better accuracy, safety, and patient-centric approaches, such technological advancements fuel the colonoscopy devices market growth. 4. Geographical Insights: In 2024, North America led the market with a substantial revenue share, followed by Europe and Asia Pacific. Asia Pacific is expected to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Stay Updated on The Latest Colonoscopy Devices Market Trends: Market Segmentation Based on product type, the colonoscopy devices market is segmented into colonoscopes, visualization systems, and others. The colonoscope segment held the largest market share in 2024. In terms of application, the colonoscopy devices market is categorized into colorectal cancer, lynch syndrome, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, and others. The colorectal cancer segment dominated the market in 2024. By end user, the colonoscopy devices market is segmented into hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, and others. The hospitals segment dominated the market in 2024. The colonoscopy devices market is segmented into five major regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East & Africa, and South & Central America. Competitive Strategy and Development Key players: AMBU AS, Fujifilm, Endomed Systems GmbH, Olympus, Pentax, GI View, Boston Scientific Corporation, Steris PLC, and Avantis Medical Systems are among the major companies operating in the colonoscopy devices market. Trending topics: AI-Powered Echocardiography, 4D Imaging and XR Training, Ultrafast Myocardial Contrast Echocardiography, Integration with Multimodal Imaging, Point-of-Care and Portable Devices, etc. Headlines on Colonoscopy Devices Siemens Healthineers Announces FDA Clearance of Cardiovascular Ultrasound System and 4D ICE Catheter FDA Expands Approval of Cardiac Ultrasound Imaging Agent for Pediatric Patients Ultromics Announces Partnership to Expedite Development of Echo AI Algorithm for Early Detection of Cardiac Amyloidosis. Purchase Premium Copy of Global Colonoscopy Devices Market Size and Growth Report (2021-2031) at: Conclusion The colonoscopy devices market is witnessing robust growth due to the increasing incidence of colorectal cancer, new technologies, and rising focus on preventive care. AI-enhanced detection, high-definition visualization, and portable or disposable equipment are enhancing diagnostic sensitivity, procedural safety, and patient outcomes. With the rising aging population and public health interventions encouraging regular screening, there is a continuous demand for low-cost and effective colonoscopy equipment. In addition, greater healthcare access in developing markets facilitates market growth. With ongoing innovation and increasing awareness of colorectal disease, the demand for colonoscopy devices is surging. Trending Related Reports: About Us: The Insight Partners is a one stop industry research provider of actionable intelligence. We help our clients in getting solutions to their research requirements through our syndicated and consulting research services. We specialize in industries such as Semiconductor and Electronics, Aerospace and Defense, Automotive and Transportation, Biotechnology, Healthcare IT, Manufacturing and Construction, Medical Device, Technology, Media and Telecommunications, Chemicals and Materials. Contact Us: If you have any queries about this report or if you would like further information, please contact us: Contact Person: Ankit Mathur E-mail: +1-646-491-9876 Logo: View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE TIP Knowledge Services Pvt. Ltd.
CTV News
a day ago
- Health
- CTV News
Calls to lower colorectal cancer screening age
Winnipeg Watch Maralee speaks with Barry Stein of Colorectal Cancer Canada about their push to lower the screening age to 45 years old.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Colorectal cancer isn't an 'old person's disease,' advocates warn. A stage 4 cancer survivor shares 5 things you should never do if you want to avoid the disease
Colorectal cancer is a serious health risk for many Canadians — including people under age 50. More than 25,200 people were diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2024, making it the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer in Canada last year. Now, advocates want all provinces and territories to lower the screening age for the disease to 45. "Our objective is to ensure that young Canadians do not ignore the signs and symptoms just because of their age and that they are aware of their family medical history and risk level, as we call on our provincial and territorial health ministries to lower the screening age for colorectal cancer throughout the country to 45," Barry Stein, president and CEO of Colorectal Cancer Canada, explains in a press release on Tuesday. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Contact a qualified medical professional before engaging in any physical activity, or making any changes to your diet, medication or lifestyle. The non-profit adds that colorectal cancer might be perceived as an "old person's disease," but shares that early-onset colorectal cancer is on the rise and that cancer doesn't care about your age. Most new cases still occur in people age 50 and above, but Canadians born after 1980 are two to two-and-a-half times more likely to be diagnosed with colorectal cancer before age 50 compared to earlier generations. According Colorectal Cancer Canada, 26 people die from the illness everyday on average, with around 69 people receiving a diagnosis daily. For 2024, it was estimated that 9,400 Canadians died from colorectal cancer, making up 11 per cent of all cancer deaths last year. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Colorectal Cancer Canada (@coloncanada) Colorectal cancer cancer grows more slowly than some other cancer and can stay in the colon or rectum for months or even years. If left untreated, it can spread to other parts of the body, but if found early, colorectal cancer can often be cured. This is why Stein points out that colorectal cancer can be preventable through lifestyle choices, awareness of symptoms and early screening. In 1995, while juggling the demands of his legal career, Stein began noticing various concerning symptoms. Those included blood in his stool, migraines, abdominal pain and nausea, which he dismissed as related to stress. "I was turning 41 at the time and had no idea what cancer even was," Stein recalls in a previous interview with Yahoo Canada. "People didn't say that word so much in 1995, let alone colorectal cancer. These were symptoms that came and went, so I ignored them." It wasn't until he finally had a fecal occult blood test and colonoscopies that the diagnosis hit: Stage IV colorectal cancer, which had spread to his liver and lungs. Still, Stein stresses a person's health doesn't have to get to this point; he shares five things Canadians should and shouldn't do to help prevent colorectal cancer. Unexplained changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, persistent abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss or fatigue should never be symptoms you ignore. These signs might also be linked to other gastrointestinal conditions, including ulcers, Crohn's disease or hemorrhoids, according to the Colorectal Cancer Canada website. That means "just because you have these symptoms doesn't mean you have colon cancer," Stein adds. "But they are a reason to be checked out." Regular screenings are important because colorectal cancer often develops from precancerous polyps, or growths in the colon or rectum. Catching and removing these polyps early can prevent them from becoming cancerous. Starting at age 50, you should undergo routine fecal occult blood tests and colonoscopies. Even though everybody has the right to get screened starting at age 50, the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer states the "screening participation rate across the country is still below the national target of 60 per cent." Despite this, Colorectal Cancer Canada highlights that the screening guidelines have effectively reduced cancer rates in those over age 50, demonstrating their life-saving potential. However, there is a rise in cases among younger adults, particularly those with a family history of colorectal cancer, Stein notes. These individuals are often diagnosed at a later stage because they are not getting screened and health-care professionals may not suspect cancer at a young age. If you're under 50 and experiencing related symptoms, or have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, you may need to start screening early. "Speak to your doctor about your personal testing plan," the organization advises. The Foods That Fight Cancer program by Colorectal Cancer Canada recommends eating a diet rich in whole grains, fruits and vegetables. These foods are high in fibre, which helps keep the digestive system healthy and can lower the risk of colorectal cancer. In addition to these foods, the program advises limiting the intake of processed meats and red meat, which are associated with a higher risk of colorectal cancer. It also recommends reducing the amount of alcohol and sugary beverages you drink. Highly processed foods should be minimized as well. By making these dietary changes, the risk of developing colorectal cancer can be minimized, Stein points out. Incorporate regular exercise into your routine, as physical inactivity is a significant risk factor for colorectal cancer. Stein highlights, "Having a sedentary lifestyle, in other words, being a couch potato, is a risk factor." Staying active not only helps maintain a healthy weight but also reduces the risk of colorectal cancer. According to Colorectal Cancer Canada, regular physical activity can lower the risk by improving bowel function and reducing inflammation. Discuss your family history of colorectal cancer with a health-care provider so you understand the risk. If you have a first-degree relative — such as a parent, sibling or child — who's had colorectal cancer, your risk is higher. Shared genetics and lifestyle factors contribute to this increased risk, according to Colorectal Cancer Canada. Moreover, genetic syndromes like Lynch syndrome (hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer) can elevate your risk further. People with Lynch syndrome are more likely to develop colorectal cancer, often at a younger age. Other inherited conditions, like familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), which causes numerous polyps in the colon and rectum, also heighten the risk. "Your age and generic history of your family are risk factors that you can't control," Stein says, adding the goal is to focus on what can be controlled, like eating healthier foods and exercising. Prevention is often more straightforward than treatment, which can be invasive and challenging. As Stein states, "it's so much easier to prevent something (than to treat it)." "All you have to do is get a kit, poop in your toilet, send it to the lab with a little stick and you find out if it's positive," Stein explains. If it does turn out positive, you would then go for a colonoscopy so that the polyp can be located. "If there is a polyp, they remove it and you catch the cancer early. Otherwise, you go through what I went through, which is quite challenging, to say the least. And at worst, people die." By focusing on early screening and prevention, potential issues can be caught early before developing into cancer, ultimately saving lives and reducing the burden of treatment.
CTV News
3 days ago
- Health
- CTV News
Health advocates call for lowering colorectal cancer screening age to 45
Visitors walk through an inflatable colon as the American Cancer Society displayed information urging screening to detect colorectal cancer in Sacramento, Calif., on March 24, 2014. (Rich Pedroncelli / AP Photo) Health advocates are pushing for all provinces and territories to lower the screening age for colorectal cancer to 45 as a growing number of younger adults are getting the disease. 'Our objective is to ensure that young Canadians do not ignore the signs and symptoms just because of their age and that they are aware of their family medical history and risk level, as we call on our provincial and territorial health ministries to lower the screening age for colorectal cancer throughout the country to 45,' said Barry Stein, president and CEO of Colorectal Cancer Canada, in a statement on Tuesday. Colorectal cancer screening is currently offered for those at 'average-risk' across Canada. Those at average risk are aged 50 to 74 who don't have symptoms and personal or family history of the following: colorectal cancer certain polyps genetic conditions like Lynch syndrome inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's or colitis. Colorectal Cancer Canada, a national non-profit group, said its advice follows the change made to U.S. guidelines in 2018 to include those aged 45 to 49 for screening based on 'evidence-based recommendations' from the American Cancer Society. Australia also reduced the starting age for bowel cancer screening to 45 from 50 in 2024. What is the risk? Although individuals aged 50 and older are mostly getting the cancer, Colorectal Cancer Canada said it's not 'an old person's disease' and the risk now is greater for younger adults compared to past generations. Those born after 1980 are two to 2.5 times more likely to get colorectal cancer before they turn 50, according to Colorectal Cancer Canada. What's more, it said younger patients tend to be diagnosed with the disease at more advanced stages, which creates 'unique challenges' for prognosis and treatment. Early onset colorectal cancer is rising among those below age 50, Colorectal Cancer Canada added. At the same time, Canada is seeing a declining number of cases and deaths for those 50 and older.
