HEALTH treatment.” If it is more advanced, radiotherapy or chemotherapy may be commenced, or biological therapy – treatment with drugs that help the body control the growth of cancer – can be used. “Although chemotherapy is used in most stages of the disease, surgical resection [removal via surgery] of the primary tumour and metastases remains the most successful treatment modality to achieve a cure or prolong survival,” notes a study on colorectal cancer in the South African Medical Journal . QUIT IT Gosmokefree is a stop-smoking programme available at selected Clicks Clinics countrywide. It includes an initial assessment and support. Find a participating clinic here. Surgery for rectal cancer may include having a colostomy, where a section of bowel or colon is removed, and an opening (a stoma) is made in your abdomen for the connection of a bag system to divert waste from your body. “Caught early, colon cancer is highly treatable,” says Professor Herbst. “It is also largely preventable. Make lifestyle changes now 61 to reduce your chances by eating a balanced diet high in fruit, vegetables and fibre, low in animal fats and sugar. Cut out smoking, cut back on alcohol, get regular exercise and go for regular health checks and screenings. You will be grateful later.” CANSA offers an online Lifestyle Risk Assessment Tool that helps identify lifestyle factors that could increase cancer risk and
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