March as colorectal cancer awareness month

  • 03.03.2023
  • Other

Colorectal cancer is the third most common malignant tumour in the Polish population, in both men and women. It develops over a long period of time, even several years, and may not present any symptoms. Approximately 18,000 people develop it annually in Poland.

Colonoscopy. A life-saving examination.

Colorectal cancer develops from benign premalignant lesions - so-called polyps. Polyps can be easily removed by colonoscopy, preventing the disease from developing. This is why early detection of the disease is so important.

  • What increases the risk of colorectal cancer? 
  • What symptoms should prompt a visit to the doctor?
  • How can the disease be prevented and why is it worth having a colonoscopy?

– When it comes to the prevention of colorectal cancer, the most important thing is to perform a colonoscopy, which allows both the detection of the polyp and its removal. The preventive examination becomes a therapeutic examination - the says dr. Mateusz Jęckowski, specialist in general surgery in the footage:

Don't be afraid of colonoscopy

Free colorectal cancer screening can be done as part of the National Health Service's prevention programme. Find out where you can get screened https://www.nfz.gov.pl/dla-pacjenta/programy-profilaktyczne/program-badan-przesiewowych-raka-jelita-grubego/

We also recommend the video podcast series "Better Know Preventively" Colonoscopy. When and for whom? In episode number 3 there is a conversation with experts about how to prepare for a colonoscopy? How the examination goes and we explain that there is no need to worry.

Chronic constipation can be a risk factor for colorectal cancer. Proper nutrition and exercise are important in the prevention and management of this condition. On the portal NFZ diets you can take advantage of the free DASH diet plan.

Educational materials prepared as part of the 'Wednesday with Prevention' campaign are available free of charge at:


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