In a heartfelt video, Kate Middleton opens up about her recent absence from the public eye following abdominal surgery earlier this year. While the surgery was successful, she reveals that doctors discovered cancerous cells, prompting the need for preventive chemotherapy treatments to avoid the progression of symptoms.
To read the full interview with Prof. Dr Giovanni Leonetti from Cornerstone Clinic, Dubai Marina and Harper’s Bazaar Arabia, click here: https://www.harpersbazaararabia.com/hbanews/dubai-doctor-on-cancer-in-women
Professor Dr Giovanni Leonetti at Cornerstone Clinic, Dubai Marina, digs deeper into colon and gastric cancer and their preventive measures and how important it is to be aware of any changes within the gastrointestinal tract. If you know to have a family history of these cancers or fall within the typical age range for their occurrence, undergoing preventative screenings is imperative for early detection
Colorectal cancer, which begins in the colon or rectum, shares a similar characteristic with gastric cancer—it often shows no symptoms in the beginning stages. Early detection, just like any other cancer, is crucial for the successful treatment of gastric and colorectal cancers. These cancers are known for their silent progression in their initial stages, highlighting the importance of regular screenings for timely intervention.
By adhering to recommended screening guidelines and staying vigilant about our health, we can take proactive steps towards prevention and early detection, ultimately improving outcomes and saving lives.
For gastric cancer screening, individuals aged 70 and above should undergo screening annually, while those aged 60-69 should be screened every 2 to 3 years. Individuals aged 50-59 should undergo screening every 4 years, while younger individuals may opt for screening every 5 years or more.
As for colorectal cancer, screening for average-risk adults should commence at age 45 and continue until age 75, with screenings conducted every 10 years. Colorectal cancer ranks as the third most commonly diagnosed cancer globally, accounting for 1.9 million cases, or 9.6% of all cancer diagnoses. Similarly, stomach cancer stands as the fifth most prevalent, with 970,000 cases, representing 4.9% of total cancer diagnoses.
While the precise causes of gastric and colorectal cancers remain unclear, several risk factors play a role in their development.
For gastric cancer, risk factors may include:
Similarly, for colorectal cancer, risk factors include:
In the initial stages of both gastric and colorectal cancer, symptoms may not be readily apparent. Other mild indicators, such as feelings of fullness, stomach discomfort, and fatigue, may be attributed to less serious conditions, underscoring the importance of consulting with a specialised physician if any unusual symptoms arise.
However, specific symptoms may signal the onset of gastric cancer, warranting a visit to a gastroenterologist. These may include:
– Unexplained weight loss
– Nausea and vomiting
– Black or tarry stool
– Difficulty swallowing
– Loss of appetite
Similarly, symptoms indicative of colorectal cancer that merit further evaluation include:
– Changes in bowel habits
– Fatigue
– Unexplained weight loss
– Presence of blood in stool
When it comes to detecting gastric cancer, our specialist here at Cornerstone Clinic in Dubai Marina, Prof. Dr Giovanni Leonetti, may recommend a variety of diagnostic tests, including:
For the detection of colorectal cancer, diagnostic procedures may include:
Adopting a healthy diet that limits red and processed meat consumption while prioritising foods like fruits and vegetables, coupled with regular preventative screenings, can significantly decrease the likelihood of developing gastric or colorectal cancer. These screenings play a crucial role in identifying abnormalities before they progress to cancer and ultimately improve the effectiveness of any subsequent treatments.
To book a consultation or for more information, call +971 50 494 6377 to schedule an appointment with our gastroenterologist, Prof. Dr Giovanni Leonetti.
Professor Dr Giovanni Leonetti is a licensed general surgeon who obtained his medical degree at the University of Rome’s “La Sapienza,” where he also received his Ph.D. in Advanced Technologies in Surgery. He teaches Gastroenterology at Unicamillus Health University of Rome. During his career, he has refined the most modern and advanced diagnostic and therapeutic upper and lower gastrointestinal endoscopy techniques for treating diseases affecting the digestive system.
22 April 2024
