Colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in Finland, but it is often highly treatable when detected early. This page provides information about colorectal cancer and explains why early detection is important.

Lars-syndrome

LARS (Lower Anterior Resection Syndrome) refers to a group of symptoms that can occur particularly after surgery performed in the rectal area.

Lue lisää →

Key facts about colorectal cancer

  • Colorectal cancer is the second most common cancer among both women and men, and its incidence is increasing also in younger age groups.
  • Colorectal cancer is a general term used for cancers of the colon and rectum.
  • Cancer can be detected at an early stage through screening, such as a stool-based blood test.
  • National screening programmes are important, and participation is encouraged when you receive an invitation.
  • Colorectal cancer can also be prevented by removing precancerous polyps during a colonoscopy.
  • Risk factors include low physical activity, a diet high in red or processed meat, smoking, age, and hereditary predisposition.
  • Common symptoms include changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhoea, fatigue, bowel obstruction, or unexplained weight loss. Stools may also appear dark or contain blood.
  • Treatment usually involves surgery and, when needed, chemotherapy and sometimes radiotherapy. Early diagnosis improves outcomes and can help reduce the need for more intensive treatments and prevent cancer-related deaths.

What is Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer is a general term used for cancers of the colon, rectum, and small intestine. Most colorectal cancers develop in the colon or rectum.

In Finland, colorectal cancer is the second most common cancer among both women and men, affecting more than 4,500 people each year. The risk of developing colorectal cancer increases with age, and the average age at diagnosis is around 65 years. However, colorectal cancer is increasingly being diagnosed in people under the age of 50.

How does colorectal cancer develop?

Colorectal cancer usually develops slowly over time. It often begins as a benign growth called a polyp that forms on the lining of the bowel. Over the years, some polyps may develop into cancer.

Not all polyps become cancerous, but detecting and removing them is an important part of preventing colorectal cancer.

Why is early detection important?

Colorectal cancer often causes no symptoms in its early stages. For this reason, regular screening and awareness of symptoms play an important role.

The earlier colorectal cancer is detected, the better the treatment outcomes are likely to be.

Colorectal cancer screening

In Finland, colorectal cancer screening is a nationwide programme in which people in eligible age groups are regularly invited to take a stool-based blood test. The aim of screening is to detect cancer or precancerous changes at an early stage.

The screening programme is being expanded gradually. By 2031, the full programme will invite people aged 56–74 for regular screening.

 

Suolistosyövän seulonta

Hoidot ja oireet