Prevención del cáncer colorrectal.

Résumé

INTRODUCTION: Colorectal cancer is one of the most common tumors in western countries, constituting the third most frequent in men (after lung and prostate) and the second in women (after breast). When both sexes are considered together, it becomes the most common malignant tumor. With regard to its mortality, it is the second most frequent cause of death from cancer. From a health point of view, colorectal cancer prevention is the most cost-effective. Methods such as health education, early diagnosis and early treatment minimize complications and delay the development of the disease. OBJECTIVES: To carry out a bibliographic review of the current scientific evidence on the prevention of colorectal cancer. METHODOLOGY: A narrative review of the latest scientific evidence from journals indexed in the Cochrane Library databases, Pubmed, Cuiden, Scielo. RESULTS: Colorectal cancer does not usually give symptoms until advanced stages, varying the clinic according to the location of the tumor. There is no absolute way to prevent cancer, but it is possible to take certain measures that can help reduce your risk: Primary prevention aims to mitigate or eliminate the factors involved in the development of this tumor. It is recommended to reduce fat consumption, avoid excessive calorie consumption and overweight, as well as increase fiber intake. Secondary prevention consists of early diagnosis and early treatment. These programs are based on performing a rectal examination and detecting occult bleeding in stool. And finally, tertiary prevention is aimed at minimizing the impact of colorectal lesions. It is based on post-treatment surveillance measures aimed at the early detection of a neoplastic recurrence. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, the prevalence of colorectal cancer has a growing trend in developed countries, including Spain. It is necessary to insist on prevention to avoid or reduce complications for the health of the population.