Surgeon ​‌⁠⁠​‍‍⁠⁠‌⁠‍‍‍⁠⁠‌‌‌​advocates Early Screening To Curb Colorectal Cancer

A Consultant General Surgeon, Dr Clement Odion, has urged Nigerians to seek medical attention when they notice warning signs of colorectal cancer.

Odion, who works at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, made this known in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Monday.

He said risk factors included diets high in processed and red meat, low intake of fruits and vegetables, physical inactivity, overweight, obesity, tobacco use and alcohol consumption.

“Family history and genetics, previous colorectal cancer or certain types of polyps are also risk factors, while the risk increases markedly after age 50.”

He said warning signs included changes in bowel habits, blood in stool, ongoing abdominal cramps, pain or bloating, unexplained weight loss and persistent fatigue.

“Feeling that the bowel does not empty completely is also a warning sign, while Nigerians aged 45 years and above should seek medical attention, even without symptoms.”