The year 2022 left a worrying statistic in Mexico: more than 27 thousand people were diagnosed with gastrointestinal cancers, including esophageal, stomach and colorectal cancer. This figure reveals a growing health crisis that affects thousands of Mexicans and places these types of cancer among the most common in the country.
Colorectal and stomach cancer stand out notablyoccupying third and sixth place respectively among the ten most common types of cancer in the Mexican population. During 2022, 16,082 new cases of colorectal cancer and 9,516 of stomach cancer were registered. In addition, esophageal cancer, although less common, also has a significant impact with 1,433 new cases.
The statistics not only reflect alarming diagnoses, but also a high associated mortality, with 8,283 deaths from colorectal cancer, 7,226 from stomach cancer and 1,271 from esophageal cancer.
Understanding gastrointestinal cancers
The digestive system plays a crucial role in the body’s overall health, breaking down and absorbing essential nutrients. When cancer occurs in this system, the impact can be devastating. Cancer is caused by changes in normal cells that multiply uncontrollably, forming tumors that can disrupt normal body functions.
Esophagus cancer: This type of cancer can develop anywhere in the esophagus, the tube that connects the throat to the stomach. Risk factors include gastroesophageal reflux, smoking, alcohol consumption, and a diet poor in fruits and vegetables. Initial symptoms are usually difficulty swallowing and heartburn.
Stomach cancer: Located in the upper middle part of the abdomen, stomach cancer can arise due to infections, diets high in salt and low intake of vegetables. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, nausea, and early satiety.
Colorectal cancer: This cancer develops in the colon or rectum, often from polyps that may not cause initial symptoms. Risk factors include inflammatory bowel diseases, sedentary lifestyle, and low-fiber diets. Symptoms may include changes in bowel habits and rectal bleeding.
Globally, gastrointestinal cancers are a growing concern. In 2022, more than 3.4 million new cases of colorectal, stomach and esophageal cancer will be diagnosed. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer globally, followed by stomach and esophageal cancer, ranking among the eleven most common types of cancer.
May 29, World Digestive Health Day, is a timely reminder of the importance of digestive health and the need to take proactive measures to protect it.
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