Darmkrebs: Symptome, Vorsorge & Überlebenschancen – Was Sie wissen müssen
The recent passing of actor James Van Der Beek, known for his role in “Dawson’s Creek,” from complications related to colorectal cancer has brought renewed attention to the disease and the importance of early detection. Alexander Klaus, a colorectal cancer specialist, noted that 48 is a young age to succumb to this type of cancer.
Understanding Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer primarily affects the colon or rectum. In Austria, it is the second or third most common cancer diagnosed, with 4,769 new cases reported in 2024, tragically resulting in 2,073 deaths. The vast majority – 95 percent – of these cancers develop from the slow transformation of benign polyps.
A Shifting Landscape
While the incidence of colorectal cancer has decreased in those over 55 in many European countries, including Austria, over the past 30 years, a concerning trend has emerged: an increase in diagnoses among younger adults over the last two decades. This shift prompts questions about evolving risk factors and the need for proactive screening.
What’s Driving the Rise in Younger Cases?
Several factors are being investigated as potential contributors to the increase in colorectal cancer diagnoses in younger individuals. These include a lack of physical activity, diets high in fat and sugar, obesity, and diabetes. However, improved diagnostic capabilities also play a role. According to Klaus, the consumption of red meat and smoking are significant lifestyle risk factors.
Early-onset colorectal cancer is often linked to a genetic predisposition, such as conditions causing numerous polyps throughout the digestive system. In rare instances, the cancer can develop without the presence of polyps. A family history of colorectal cancer, particularly diagnoses before age 50, increases an individual’s risk. It is “not excluded” that genetic factors contributed to the rapid progression of the disease in James Van Der Beek’s case, Klaus stated.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Colorectal cancer is often called a “silent disease” because it may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Van Der Beek reportedly sought medical attention due to changes in his bowel habits. The primary symptom to watch for is blood in the stool, prompting the need for a colonoscopy. Other, less specific symptoms that may appear in later stages include night sweats, unexplained weight loss, and general abdominal discomfort. Pain is rarely an early indicator.
The Importance of Screening
“Darmkrebsvorsorge ist enorm wichtig,” emphasizes Klaus – colorectal cancer prevention is enormously important. Screening not only allows for early detection but can also prevent cancer by identifying and removing precancerous polyps. Currently, only 18 percent of people aged 45 and over in Austria utilize the available free screening programmes.
Screening Options in Austria
Austria’s colorectal cancer screening programme is considered effective. Options include a colonoscopy every ten years and a Fecal Immunological Test (FIT), which detects hidden blood in the stool. The FIT involves collecting a small stool sample at home for laboratory analysis. A positive FIT result requires follow-up with a colonoscopy. The FIT is recommended every two years for individuals aged 45 and older who choose it over a colonoscopy.
A pilot programme in Vienna, planned for the first half of 2026, will provide at-home FIT kits to all residents aged 45 to 75 who haven’t had a colonoscopy in the past two years. A similar programme already exists in Burgenland.
When to Seek Early Screening
Klaus recommends earlier colonoscopies for individuals with a family history of cancer, particularly colorectal cancer. A colonoscopy is also possible at any age for those experiencing symptoms or with increased risk factors, without requiring a referral.
The colonoscopy, considered the gold standard for detection, is often feared. Klaus explains the process involves taking a laxative the day before, visiting a specialist, receiving sedation, and waking up after the procedure is complete.
Treatment and Prognosis
If a polyp is discovered during a colonoscopy, it is microscopically examined. If cancerous tissue is found, a portion of the colon is removed. For advanced cases, chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be used before or after surgery. Klaus emphasizes that even in advanced stages, colorectal cancer is often curable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main symptoms of colorectal cancer?
The main symptom is blood in the stool. Other symptoms, which usually appear later in the disease, include night sweats, unexplained weight loss, and general abdominal discomfort.
How often should I get a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is recommended every ten years. However, individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer or other risk factors may need to be screened more frequently.
What is the FIT test?
The FIT test is a home-based test that checks for hidden blood in the stool. It is recommended every two years for people aged 45 and older as an alternative to a colonoscopy.
Considering the evolving understanding of colorectal cancer and the increasing diagnoses in younger populations, what steps can individuals take to proactively assess their risk and prioritize preventative care?