The pandemic has caused a significant impact not just on our medical, diagnostic and surgical needs, but also on the preventive components of our medical care such as immunizations, annual health assessments and screening measures which provide for early disease detection and appropriate medical or surgical treatments. It has been well recognized for decades that laboratory and radiological screening tests are very important − especially for older persons as well as those deemed to be at higher risk because of family history, past medical conditions or work environment. Examples include the PSA test for prostate cancer, chest X-rays for those at risk for lung conditions, breast screening mammograms for detection of early breast cancer, lipid blood levels for detection of high cholesterol and other lipids, and screening tests for those who are deemed to be at higher risk for cancerous tumours of the colon and rectum. The Canadian Cancer Society reports that colorectal cancer is expected to be the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer in Canada in 2022 (excluding non-melanoma skin cancers). It is the second leading cause of death from cancer in men and the third leading cause of death from cancer in women. By following recommended screening initiatives, the risk of fatal outcomes can be reduced by as much as 90 per cent. As withmany diseases, in seniors especially, prevention is improved by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. TheWorld Cancer Research Fund International reports that there is strong evidence that certain lifestyle choices − such as being physically active, adopting healthy eating and drinking habits, not smoking and maintaining a healthy body weight − can decrease the risk of developing cancer. Health Colon and Rectal Cancer by Dr. Robert MacMillan MD 42 | www.snowbirds.org
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