Mark Lewis on Colon and Rectal Cancer Awareness in the Wake of NordICC Trial
· The trial, scrutinizing the mortality benefits of screening colonoscopies, has ignited considerable debate and questioning within the medical community. This becomes particularly pertinent as we address colorectal cancer as a significant public health concern.
· Mark Lewis, speaking from his experience, emphasizes the critical distinction between screening for colorectal cancer and diagnosing it. He points out the heightened diagnostic urgency in younger patients showing symptoms such as blood in the stool, underlining that traditional screening guidelines may not be applicable in such diagnostic dilemmas.
· Furthermore, Lewis brings into focus the term “prevention” in the context of colorectal cancer. He suggests that perhaps a more apt approach is risk mitigation, aiming for earlier detection and potentially reducing the need for interventions by medical oncologists.