Global Focus on GI Cancer: How You Can Make an Impact

The Pulse | Tuesday, May 28, 2019

Gwen Spector, BSN RN COCN

World Digestive Health Day takes place annually on May 29. This year’s focus is Early Diagnosis and Treatment of GI Cancer. According to the World Cancer Research Fund, the global cancer burden is growing — four of the top seven cancers are found in the digestive system. Reducing modifiable risk factors, detecting and treating cancer early can decrease the death rate from GI diseases such as colorectal, esophageal and liver cancer. GI healthcare professionals play an essential role in the effort to improve these outcomes.

Key GI Cancer Facts to Know:

Colorectal cancer is the third most diagnosed cancer in the world. It is more common in adults over 50, but that number is decreasing as more people get screened. Both colon and rectal cancer are on the rise in younger adults.
Early detection through screening saves lives. The American Cancer Society and the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons have lowered the age for colorectal cancer screening in adults with average risk to 45.
The most common type of esophageal cancer in the United States is adenocarcinoma. Chronic GERD and obesity are two major risk factors.
Pancreatic cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related death. Many people are diagnosed in advanced stages, resulting in higher mortality rates. Risk factors include chronic pancreatitis and a family history of pancreatic cancer.
Primary liver cancer is on the rise in the United States. The two main risk factors are Hepatitis C, undiagnosed in many baby boomers, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Hepatitis B and excess alcohol consumption are also risk factors.
Chronic infections, such as Helicobacter (H.) pylori and Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), are risk factors for stomach and anal cancer, respectively.
Poor diet, obesity, lack of physical activity, tobacco use and alcohol consumption are risk factors in most GI Cancers.

Help Remove Barriers to Get Patients the Care They Need

Barriers include lack of insurance, limited transportation and knowledge deficits about what to do next. GI nurses and associates may be the first person the patient has contact with after a cancer diagnosis. This puts you in a pivotal role; you have the opportunity to help connect patients to resources so that they can get treatment without delay. Many organizations, such as Colorectal Cancer Alliance, offer guidance and financial assistance. Contact your facility’s Oncology Navigator to help your patient or direct your patient to Livestrong for free navigation services in English and Spanish. Navigators can educate patients, provide emotional support and find resources for barriers.

Take Every Opportunity to Teach

Look for teachable moments every day. Teaching can be as simple as sharing your knowledge with your patients. Educate them on modifiable risk factors, signs and symptoms of cancer and current screening guidelines. The websites listed in the resources section below have helpful information for patients and educational materials that can be downloaded or ordered for free.

Spread the Word About World Digestive Health Day

It’s quick and easy to spread the word these days. Contact your facility’s marketing team to write a post for their social media sites. Write an article for your facility’s newsletter. Create a flyer for a patient or staff bulletin board. Host a wellness table by the cafeteria or an open house in your department. Use your personal network to promote World Digestive Health Day and GI Cancer using the hashtags #WDHD2019 and #GICancer.

Reach Out to the Community

There may not be time to plan a community event on World Digestive Health Day, but these activities can take place any time in the year. Host or have a table at a health fair to promote healthy lifestyle choices and early detection of GI cancer. Collaborate with other services like nutrition and oncology to provide comprehensive education. This could be done for your facility or with your own community groups. You can order or download free educational materials from American Cancer Society (contact your rep), CDC, Colon Cancer Coalition and Prevent Cancer Foundation, among many others.

Use Your Voice, Knowledge and Skills to Make an Impact

As GI healthcare professionals, no matter what area you work or what your role is, you can help reduce the GI Cancer burden. By increasing awareness, providing education and finding the appropriate resources for treatment, you can make a positive difference in the lives of your patients, your community and, ultimately, the world.

Resources:

American Cancer Society

American College of Gastroenterology

American Liver Foundation

American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

Anal Cancer Foundation

Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation

Colorectal Cancer Alliance

Debbie’s Dream Foundation

Fight Colorectal Cancer

National Cancer Institute

National Comprehensive Cancer Network

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases

Pancreatic Cancer Action Network

SGNA Webinars

SGNA is a community of nurses, technicians, medical assistants, industry representatives and other GI professionals. Members join to stay up-to-date on industry trends and evidence-based practice, receive free and discounted education, network with others passionate about gastroenterology and to feel pride in their profession. Join SGNA today!