American Hospital Dubai launches Colon Cancer Screening Program designed to save lives among over 50s, at UAE Cancer Congress 2016

UAE, November 23, 2016- American Hospital Dubai has launched a new screening program for colon cancer – one of the most common forms of cancer and a main cause of cancer related deaths worldwide – at the UAE Cancer Congress 2016, where the hospital was the Main Partner. The new program is designed to prevent, detect and cure colon cancer in women and men aged 50 and over, and so save patient lives. 

The colon is part of the body’s digestive system and removes and processes nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, fats, proteins and water) from food and helps pass waste from the body.

Colorectal (large bowel) cancer is the third most common cancer in the world and one of the leading causes of cancer related deaths among women and men but it is also one of the most preventable types of cancer and is often curable when detected early. 

Initially there are no symptoms but once they appear they may include abdominal pain, blood in the stool, and change of bowel habits. Most colon cancers start with benign wart-like growths on the inner lining of the colon or rectum called polyps – not all of which have the potential to become cancerous. Screening can detect these polyps which can then be removed before they become cancerous.

Age is the main risk factor for colon cancer, which affects women and men equally and is most common after the age of 50 although it can also affect younger people. Other risk factors include family and personal history of polyps, colitis, Crohn’s disease and other cancers.
 
The American Hospital Dubai’s Colon Cancer Screening Program is a comprehensive package designed for people over the age of 50. Screening involves Colonoscopy, which is a quick (20-30 minutes) and safe procedure to detect polyps undertaken whilst the patient is under sedation and provides fast and accurate results.

Dr. Regina C. Will, Consultant Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutritional Medicine Health Economist, American Hospital Dubai, said: “Colon cancer can be prevented and cured if screening is undertaken regularly starting at the age of 50, which is when most cases start to occur. We decided to design a special program that includes all the visits, tests and analysis required, making the package more easily accessible and affordable, as well as quick and convenient.“

Dr. Louis Chaptini, Gastroenterology and Hepatology Consultant, American Hospital Dubai, added: “We encourage all women and men in the community who are 50 and over to consider this test, regardless of whether there are symptoms or not. Once symptoms appear, the cancer becomes more difficult to treat and cure and so regular testing really can prevent this form of cancer and the unnecessary deaths that can result.”