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The UAE reports 200 new cases of colorectal cancer each year, with lack of health knowledge and cultural barriers contributing to the frequent incidence of the disease. Colorectal cancer is the second most common cancer in men and the third most common cancer affecting women in the country. It mainly affects people over the age of 40, and prevention through regular screening is considered the most effective method of prevention.
Colorectal cancer can grow in the body without any noticeable symptoms. By the time symptoms become apparent, the cancer has usually advanced to a point where a combination of surgical intervention and/or chemotherapy may be needed. A Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC) – The survey commissioned by the Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC) found that 63% of respondents cited the absence of any disturbing symptoms as the number one reason they did not think they would need regular colorectal cancer screening, pointing to a lack of health in the region Knowledge.For Emiratis, deterrence includes Fear of pain, fear of finding out about serious illness, and shame.
Dr. Aref Chehal, consultant oncologist at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, who works with the Mayo Clinic, said changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, abdominal pain or discomfort, persistent fatigue and unexplained weight loss can all signal the presence of colorectal cancer. “Colorectal cancer typically starts with the formation of small, benign polyps in the lining of the colon. Over time, however, some of these polyps may develop into cancerous growths. To prevent this, a colonoscopy may be Identify and remove any polyps before they become cancerous.”
Colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death in the UAE. But it’s also one of the most preventable cancers when caught early, with a 95 percent cure rate. Several screening methods can help detect this type of cancer, including colonoscopy and fecal immunochemical testing (FIT). “Colonoscopy every 10 years is strongly recommended for women and men starting at age 40, as around 80% of colorectal cancers are detected in this age group. The FIT test, which can be done yearly and looks at a stool sample, is helpful for those with this type of disease. This is especially important for people with a family history of cancer,” Dr. Chehal said.
Dr Arif Cehal
UAE-approved AI-powered technology GI Genius is setting new standards for early colorectal cancer detection. “The system has been shown to significantly improve visualization during colonoscopy, thereby increasing the accuracy of detection of colon precancerous polyps. This resulted in a 50% reduction in the risk of death from colorectal cancer,” explained Dr. Chehal. Since April 2022, SSMC has successfully screened more than 300 patients using the GI Genius module.
Treatment options for colorectal cancer vary depending on factors such as the stage and location of the cancer, and include a variety of approaches including surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted drug therapy, and interventional procedures. From a full range of laparoscopic and robot-assisted colorectal surgery, reducing pain, blood loss and recovery time while helping patients maintain normal function and avoid colostomy bags, to stoma polypectomy laparoscopic surgery, partial colectomy, lymph node dissection Surgery, endoscopic mucosal resection, metastasectomy, HIPEC (heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy), adjuvant and palliative care, patients have many options.
“However, prevention is better than cure. If you are 40 or older, the best way to protect yourself is to get tested and screened regularly. It is the only way to increase your chances of early detection and the most effective way to improve survival, ’ he added.
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