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Around 350–400 people in Cyprus are diagnosed with colorectal cancer each year, making it one of the most common cancers on the island. Health specialists warn that, despite these figures, the disease is largely preventable and highly treatable when identified early.
The Cyprus Gastroenterology Society, marking European Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, is urging the public to take prevention seriously and make use of available screening tools. According to experts, colorectal cancer typically develops in the large intestine or rectum and often begins as non-cancerous polyps that can become malignant over time if left untreated.
Across Europe, the disease is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Risk factors include poor diet, lack of physical activity, obesity, smoking, excessive alcohol use, family history, and certain chronic intestinal conditions. Doctors are also increasingly concerned about a rise in cases among younger people, a trend linked to modern lifestyle and dietary habits.
One of the challenges is that early-stage colorectal cancer often causes no noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they may include bleeding, changes in bowel habits, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, anemia, or abdominal discomfort. For this reason, routine screening is considered essential.
Colonoscopy remains the most effective method for both detecting and preventing the disease, as it allows doctors to identify and remove polyps before they turn cancerous. Additional diagnostic tools include stool tests, blood tests, and imaging. Treatment options vary depending on how advanced the cancer is and may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or targeted treatments. Outcomes are significantly better when the disease is caught early.
Health professionals are encouraging people to adopt healthier lifestyles, including a fiber-rich diet, regular exercise, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol intake, and maintaining a healthy weight. Preventive screening is recommended from the age of 50, or earlier for those considered at higher risk.
At the same time, PASYKAF is calling on individuals aged 50 to 74 to take part in Cyprus’ national colorectal cancer screening program, run by the Ministry of Health. The initiative, introduced in 2025, offers free testing every two years.
The program uses the FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test), which allows participants to collect a small stool sample at home using a kit sent by post. The completed sample is then submitted at designated health centers or hospitals, after which individuals must contact their personal doctor to arrange laboratory analysis through the national healthcare system.
Officials emphasize that this screening process is simple, painless, and potentially life-saving. Participation has been steadily increasing, and authorities hope more people will take advantage of the program to improve both individual and public health outcomes.
For further details, citizens are advised to consult their personal doctor or visit official Ministry of Health resources.
