Introduction
On Wednesday (16), singer Preta Gil shared a publication that reassured her fans regarding her health status. The artist recently revealed that she was diagnosed with bowel cancer, and has since sought treatment to face this serious illness. In this article, we will address Preta Gil's current health status, understand what bowel cancer is and learn about its main symptoms.
Preta Gil's health status
According to a statement on her social media, Preta Gil informed that she is halfway through chemotherapy treatment. She shared that she has already completed four cycles of chemotherapy and still has a way to go. Furthermore, the singer mentioned that she will undergo four more chemotherapy sessions, followed by five weeks of radiotherapy and, finally, surgery.
During her participation in Ana Maria Braga's program, singer Preta Gil talks about how she discovered she was fighting bowel cancer. According to her, she found out because she felt sick. In his words, “I had high blood pressure spikes, a lot of headaches and, when I was admitted, I was diagnosed with a headache. Then, one day, I was going to the bathroom, and I saw something running down my legs and it was blood, but it wasn't much, it was a lot of blood. With all that, I fainted, they rushed me to the hospital and in the first CT scan the tumor appeared. My cancer is relatively large, but the malignant part of it is a polyp in the middle of spongy flesh”.
What is bowel cancer?
Bowel cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in Brazil and ranks second among the cancers that most affect Brazilians. According to the National Cancer Institute (Inca), it is the appearance of a malignant tumor in the large intestine.
This type of cancer can develop over time, starting in small growths called polyps, which are found on the inner lining of the large intestine. Over time, these polyps can become cancerous and spread to other parts of the body.
Main symptoms of bowel cancer
There are signs and symptoms that may indicate the presence of bowel cancer in the body. It is important to be aware of these signs and seek medical advice if they appear. Below we present the main symptoms of this disease:
1. Blood in the stool
The presence of blood in the stool is a worrying sign and may indicate the presence of bowel cancer. It is important to observe whether there is bright blood or whether the feces have a dark color, similar to coffee grounds.
2. Change in bowel habits
Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or persistent constipation, may indicate the presence of bowel cancer. If you notice significant changes in this aspect, it is recommended to seek medical evaluation.
3. Abdominal pain or discomfort
Persistent pain or discomfort in the abdominal region, especially if accompanied by other symptoms such as bloating or a feeling of heaviness, may be signs of bowel cancer.
4. Change in the shape of feces
Ribbon-shaped, flat, very thin and long stools may indicate an obstruction in the intestine caused by cancer.
5. Weakness and anemia
The presence of weakness and anemia without an apparent cause may be related to bowel cancer. It is important to seek medical advice for investigation.
6. Unexplained weight loss
Losing weight for no apparent reason, especially if accompanied by other symptoms mentioned above, can be a warning sign of bowel cancer.
7. Abdominal mass
The presence of a mass or tumor in the abdominal region may be an advanced sign of bowel cancer. If you notice any lump or abnormality, it is essential to seek medical attention.
Conclusion
Singer Preta Gil has courageously faced bowel cancer and shared her journey with her fans. It is important to be aware of the symptoms mentioned and seek medical advice if any of them appear. Early diagnosis is essential to increase the chances of successful treatment. Remember to carry out routine exams and take care of your intestinal health.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Is bowel cancer curable?
The possibility of curing bowel cancer depends on several factors, such as the stage of the disease, the response to treatment and the patient's general health. In cases detected early, the chances of a cure are greater.
2. What are the risk factors for bowel cancer?
Some risk factors include age over 50, family history of the disease, diet high in fat and low in fiber, physical inactivity and obesity.
3. Is there prevention for bowel cancer?
Adopting a healthy lifestyle, with a balanced diet, rich in fiber and low in fat, exercising regularly and avoiding alcohol and tobacco consumption can help reduce the risk of developing bowel cancer.
4. Is chemotherapy the only treatment for bowel cancer?
Chemotherapy is one of the treatment options for bowel cancer, but other procedures, such as surgery and radiotherapy, may be necessary depending on the stage of the disease.
5. How can I find out more about bowel cancer?
It is essential to seek reliable information about bowel cancer through medical sources and institutions specializing in oncology. Consulting a specialist doctor is also essential to obtain personalized guidance appropriate to your case.