As per a recent study, Australian young adults have the highest rate of bowel cancer in the entire world, to start with! This is an alarming finding, to say the least. The research, which was conducted by the American Cancer Society, shows that Australia has the highest rate of early-onset bowel cancer amongst people under 50 years of age.
The Reason Behind…
Numerous population-based studies have connected obesity to an increased risk of cancer, more so, bowel cancer.
A higher risk of colon cancer has also been linked to unhealthy lifestyle choices, such as consuming more highly processed meals, particularly meats. To further investigate its role, high-caliber research is required. Additionally,excessive consumption of alcohol is also another significant reason behind the increase in the cases of bowel cancer, coupled with an unhealthy lifestyle.
The Role of Continence Nurses in Caring Individuals With Bowel Cancer
Due to its gradual progression, colorectal cancer may not show signs until it has progressed. That is the reason, the participant has to be subjected to 24×7 NDIS continence services in Perth for constant monitoring. Common symptoms and indicators of colon cancer include:
- Exhaustion
- Reduced body weight
- discomfort in the abdomen
- In the stool, blood
- Bowel habit changes
- Swelling
- Cramps and constipation
Ascertaining the Gastrointestinal Habits of the Participant
Consistency, colour, form, and frequency changes in stool should not be ignored. Blood in the stool, fatigue, and inadvertent weight loss are also possible early signs of colon cancer. Therefore, a trained and qualified NDIS continence nurse in Melbourne has to monitor for these signs and symptoms.
The professional has to track the family history as well. Finding familial clusters and underlying patterns requires a comprehensive evaluation of family history. A family history of colon cancer coupled with an advanced polyp by an immediate (first-degree) relative (parent, sibling, or child) indicates a higher risk for primary colon cancer, necessitating frequent screening. A family member with colon cancer before the age of 45 would technically be at a higher risk. So all these facts and figures have to be taken into account by the continence nurse.
Identification of the Participant’s Risk Factors
The non-modifiable risk factors of the participant with bowel cancer include:
Past medical history of colorectal cancer or polyps: A history of adenomatous polyps (adenomas) displaying dysplasia increases the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Even if colorectal cancer was completely removed, having it raises the chance of developing it again in other parts of the colon and rectum. Recurrence is more likely if colorectal cancer is discovered early in life.
Medical history of inflammatory bowel disease: Having inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, increases the risk of colorectal cancer. Inflammation of the colon is a symptom of IBD. Long-term IBD patients, particularly those who experience uncontrollable flare-ups, often develop dysplasia, or abnormal-looking cells.
Physical Assistance Done By the Nurses
Conducting a physical assessment
Physical examination findings during the outset of colon cancer may be normal or ambiguous (e.g., fatigue or weight loss). In more serious situations, the following could be present:
- Bleeding in the rectal area
- Abdominal lump that can be felt
- Enlargement of the liver (hepatomegaly)
- Discolouration of the eyes or skin
- Anaemia
- Pallor in Ascites
- Abdominal organ enlargement
- buildup of fluid (oedema)
Performing a Digital Rectal Examination
During a digital rectal exam (DRE), the nurse may feel for any abnormalities by putting a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum.
What Diagnostic Techniques Do the Nurses Adopt?
They Motivate the Participant To Take Suggested Screening Tests
Regular screening is one of the most effective ways to prevent colorectal cancer. When colorectal cancer is detected early, the tumours are smaller, more localised, and simpler to cure. Regular screening can help prevent colorectal cancer.
They Help The Participants With The Screening Process
Participants are subjected to two types of screening tests:
- Tests based on faeces search for signs of cancer. Although they are simpler and less intrusive, they need to be performed more frequently.
- The faecal immunochemical test (FIT) looks for blood in the faeces using antibodies. The guaiac-based faecal occult blood test (gFOBT) finds occult (hidden) blood in the stool by means of a chemical reaction. It is unable to determine where the blood came from. The stool DNA test looks for particular aberrant DNA segments from cancer or polyp cells as well as occult (hidden) blood in the sample.
So you see, there is a lot of responsibility for the continence nurses who take care of participants with bowel cancer. So it is important to turn to a reputable NDIS service provider. What better name can one look for, than CaptainK Supports and Cares? Call us to book an appointment to discuss the needs if your loved one has been diagnosed with bowel cancer.
