Experts warn of risk factors as colon cancer on the rise
Experts warn of risk factors as colon cancer on the rise
KUWAIT: Colorectal cancer has become one of the leading types of cancer in Kuwait, now ranking first among men and second among women, according to recent data from the Kuwait Cancer Control Center.
Speaking at the launch of the the Cancer Aware Nation's (CAN) Colorectal Cancer Awareness Campaign Dr Khalid Ahmad Al-Saleh, Chairman of CAN's Board, warned that lifestyle choices, particularly diet and physical inactivity, are contributing significantly to this alarming trend.
Dr Al-Saleh pointed out a troubling shift in cancer cases: 'Back in 1981–1982, colorectal cancer was ranked 8th in prevalence. Today, it ranks first among men and second among women in Kuwait.' He referenced data from the Kuwait Cancer Control Center, which reported 2,775 new cancer cases in 2020. Among these, there were 289 cases of colorectal cancer in Kuwaitis, and 120 cases in non-Kuwaitis (66 in men and 54 in women).
A notable finding, he said, is the disproportionate rate of colorectal cancer among Kuwaiti men - 90 cases - despite non-Kuwaitis making up three times the population. 'This suggests there may be a problem with dietary habits among Kuwaitis. One major issue is the widespread consumption of fast food, which is ordered in large quantities every day,' he explained. He further stressed that cancer is a chronic disease, meaning the choices people make today - especially around food - can affect their health decades later.
Dr Alnoud Al-Sumait highlighted the critical role of early detection. 'Colorectal cancer often develops silently, but with early screening, lives can be saved.' She explained that the disease involves abnormal cell growth and progresses very slowly, typically over 10 to 20 years. Both environmental and genetic factors contribute to its development, and it can often be cured if caught early. According to the Global Cancer Observatory, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer worldwide.
Dr Al-Sumait identified both uncontrollable and controllable risk factors. While age, family history, and chronic intestinal diseases cannot be changed, modifiable risks include poor diet, lack of physical activity, smoking and obesity. She warned about foods that raise the risk of colorectal cancer, especially processed meats, red meat and ultra-processed foods. These include fizzy drinks, instant soups, sweets, biscuits, colored breakfast cereals, and flavored yogurts - products typically high in fat and low in fiber.
She explained that red meat contains heme iron, which can damage the colon lining and promote the formation of harmful compounds like N-nitroso, known to increase the risk of DNA mutations. Processed meats carry similar risks. In terms of prevention, Dr Al-Sumait recommended the following: Consume 25–35 grams of fiber daily; limit red meat intake to 500 grams per week; avoid processed meats; use healthy cooking methods; engage in regular physical activity; quit smoking; and undergo routine medical check-ups.
Dr Al-Saleh emphasized that raising awareness requires patience and determination. 'Unfortunately, awareness is progressing slowly - not only in Kuwait but across many parts of the world, where there is still more focus on treatment than prevention,' he noted.
To reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, doctors recommend:
•A diet rich in fiber (25–35 grams daily)
•Limiting red meat to 500 grams per week
•Avoiding processed meats entirely
•Regular physical activity
•Quitting smoking
•Periodic screenings.
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