Supporting Patients With Colorectal Cancer Anastasia Pasakopoulou

Contents What is colon cancer ? Risk factors for colorectal cancer Diagnostic examinations Prevention Supporting patients with CRC Proposals for improvement

Colon Cancer It’s a type of cancer that develops in the colon and in the intestines. It’s the third most common type of cancer. Its occurrence is balanced between the two sexes. Its development is related to hereditary and environmental (dietary) factors. It can be diagnosed during at early stages with the preventive examination of the vulnerable group of population, but also it can be cured by surgically removing any colon polyps.

Risk factors for colorectal cancer (I) : Having a family history of colon or rectal cancer in a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, child). Having a personal history of cancer of the colon, rectum or ovary. Having a personal history of high-risk adenomas. Having inherited changes in certain genes that increase the risk of familial adenomatous polyposis or Lynch syndrome.

Risk factors for colorectal cancer (II) : Having a personal history of chronic ulcerative colitis or Crohn disease for 8 years or more. Alcohol consumption Smoking cigarettes Obesity Absence of physical exercise

Diagnostic Examinations gastroenterologist At home X-Ray laboratory

Prevention Unusual stomach symptoms or changes or blood during discharges should be immediately reported to the doctor. People older than 50 years of age (even without symptoms) must be preventively tested for the disease after visiting gastroenterologist. Consuming fruits, vegetables and calcium acts preventively. Non-smoking and physical exercise are important preventive measures. The surgical removal of polyps prevents the development of colon cancer. People with family history of colon cancer must visit a gastroenterologist at a young age.

Supporting patients with CRC Psychological support Financial support Clinical support Patients 'rights Dealing with cancer Coping with body changes Coping with feelings Support for caregivers CRC leaflets

Proposals for Improvement Talking about cancer prevention and treatment Dealing with cancer Facing cancer with your family Caring for your body Staying active Healthy diet Roll out booklet about cancer patients ‘diet

Prevention and early detection are better than cure

Thank You !