- By Iram Hussain
- Thu, 07 Nov 2024 05:22 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Colorectal Cancer remains a common cancer in the world, afflicting millions of individuals each year. Yet studies are increasingly showing that it affects men and women differently. Gender-based differences are included in incidence rates, genetic factors, symptoms, screening practices and treatment outcomes. Recognising these distinctions is crucial for promoting colorectal cancer care, from early detection to personalised treatment.
In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Surender Kumar Dabas, Vice Chairman - Oncology & Chief - Robotic Surgery, BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital explained the eight critical differences in colorectal cancer between men and women.
Colorectal Cancer In Men Vs Women
Incidence and Risk Factors
Colorectal cancer is slightly more common among men. It is suspected that this could be a result of lifestyle causes like higher rates of smoking, alcohol and intake of red meat combined with environmental and occupational factors to which men are exposed most of the time. On average, men are younger than women when diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Women have a somewhat lower overall risk because of overall less exposure to carcinogens in their lifetime.
Tumour Location In The Colon
Research indicates that CRC tumors are more often found in the distal colon and rectum in men while women more frequently have tumors in the proximal colon. This difference could be influenced by hormonal and anatomical factors as well as different screening detection patterns.
Symptoms And Clinical Presentation
Men are more likely to experience visible symptoms, like rectal bleeding and changes in bowel habits, leading to quicker medical consultation. Women, however, may experience less specific symptoms (such as fatigue or abdominal discomfort) because of the proximal location of the tumour, which can sometimes delay diagnosis as these symptoms are misattributed to other conditions.
Screening And Health-Seeking Behaviour
Men are statistically more likely to undergo screening procedures such as colonoscopies, partly due to more overt symptomatology. Women, particularly younger women often experience delays in screening due to more subtle symptom presentation and potentially lower perceived risk, which can contribute to later-stage diagnosis.
Genetic Differences And Molecular Profiles
Men and women differ in their genetic profiles for CRC. Men often exhibit mutations in genes like KRAS, associated with more aggressive cancer forms. Women, on the other hand, more frequently display microsatellite instability (MSI), linked to better response rates to immunotherapy and is often associated with Lynch syndrome.
Survival Rates And Prognosis
Survival rates tend to be slightly higher for women, possibly due to differences in tumour biology and responsiveness to treatments. However, this survival benefit may be offset by delayed diagnoses in women due to subtler symptoms and lower screening rates.
Treatment Response And Side Effects
Some studies suggest men and women respond differently to treatments, including chemotherapy, mainly due to different mutations involved in carcinogenesis and to some extent due to hormonal factors. Women may experience different side effects or better responses to certain therapies, highlighting the importance of personalized treatment plans.
Awareness And Perception Of Risk
Men are often more aware of CRC risks due to more pronounced symptoms which may lead to faster action. Women may underestimate their risk, potentially due to the nonspecific nature of their symptoms, underscoring the need for gender-targeted awareness campaigns to improve early detection in women.