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Bowel cancer is and remains one of the most common forms of cancer in Germany. Around 60,000 people are diagnosed with it every year, and the trend is rising in certain age groups. However, what often remains unclear: There is not just one form of bowel cancer. The medical distinction between the different types of bowel cancer provides crucial information for diagnosis, treatment and prevention.
It is essential for specialists and managers in the healthcare sector and for HR decision-makers in clinical facilities, medical technology companies and the life sciences sector to understand this differentiation. This is the only way to identify risks at an early stage, develop skills in a targeted manner and successfully recruit qualified personnel.
In practice, a distinction is most frequently made according to the site of tumor development:
This form develops in the colon, the main part of the large intestine. It usually develops from benign polyps, which can change into adenocarcinomas over the course of years. This process is also known as the adenoma-carcinoma sequence and can be almost completely interrupted by regular screening.
The following is relevant for managers: The importance of colonoscopy for employees over 50 should be emphasized in workplace health promotion.
These tumors develop in the last section of the intestine, the rectum. Due to the proximity to other organs and structures, surgical treatment is often complex. Interdisciplinary treatment approaches are particularly important here.
For medical staff: Knowledge of the differentiated approach to rectal cancer is essential for oncology nurses or surgical assistants.
In addition to the localization, the cellular composition is also decisive. The most common histological types of colorectal cancer are
Around 95 percent of all intestinal tumors belong to this group. They originate from the intestinal mucosa. Some subtypes, such as mucinous or signellous adenocarcinoma, are more aggressive.
These tumors are rare and mainly occur in the small intestine. They develop from hormone-producing cells and can trigger various symptoms. Their diagnosis and treatment require specialist knowledge.
They originate from lymph cells in the intestinal tissue. Although this form of cancer is rare, it occurs preferentially in immunocompromised people and requires a completely different therapy.
They usually occur in the area of the anal canal and differ considerably from other intestinal tumors in terms of their cell structure and the treatment strategy to be used.
For personnel decision-makers in clinics and laboratories: The demand for highly specialized personnel, especially for the diagnosis of rare tumor types and their molecular characterization, is growing.
Not all bowel cancers develop by chance or as a result of lifestyle factors. Two hereditary syndromes play a central role:
This form of hereditary bowel cancer is associated with a high risk of tumors in the colon and other organs. Those affected often develop the disease much earlier, sometimes even before the age of 50.
This rare genetic disease leads to the formation of numerous polyps at a young age. If the colon is not removed prophylactically, the risk of developing cancer is almost 100 percent.
An important indication for decision-makers in screening programs: Targeted identification of at-risk families through genetic counseling and testing can save lives and significantly reduce care costs.
Colorectal cancer has a decisive advantage over many other types of cancer: it is almost completely preventable through early detection. The removal of preliminary stages, such as polyps, is uncomplicated and effective.
The immunological stool test is uncomplicated, inexpensive and can be repeated annually.
Colonoscopy is the gold standard for detecting and removing polyps.
Since 2019, men aged 50 and over and women aged 55 and over have been legally required to undergo preventive care. However, the participation rate still falls short of expectations.
Potential for employers: Targeted education as part of occupational health management can encourage participation and reduce sickness costs in the long term.
Medical oncology is developing rapidly, particularly in the areas of molecular diagnostics, targeted therapies and patient-centered care. As a result, the demands on specialists are also changing.
Knowledge of tumor classification and diagnostics
Experience in the field of endoscopy or oncological care
Know-how in imaging procedures and laboratory diagnostics
Interdisciplinary thinking, for example at the interface between IT and pathology.
For qualified applicants, this results in attractive entry opportunities in specialized centers or innovative companies in the fields of medical technology and life sciences.
Particularly in a competitive labor market, HR managers have the opportunity to identify suitable talent through well-founded requirement profiles.
Not all bowel cancers are the same. By differentiating between localization, cell type and genetic background, a more precise diagnosis is possible, more effective therapies can be used and more targeted prevention strategies can be developed. This knowledge is just as essential for medical professionals as it is for managers who are responsible for the health of their employees.
For companies: Integrate the topic of gut health into your internal health strategies and offer your employees access to preventive services.
The following applies to medical staff: always keep your knowledge of new classifications, treatment methods and risk factors up to date.
For recruiters: Use your specialist knowledge of colorectal cancer types to fill vacant positions precisely. Suitable candidates are particularly in demand in specialized areas of diagnostics and therapy.
We are happy to support you if you are looking for qualified specialists and managers who can provide professional and personal support in the prevention, diagnosis or treatment of colorectal cancer.
For over 15 years, BESTMINDS Executive Search has been filling key positions in the medical technology, healthcare, life sciences / pharma and IT / media sectors with in-depth industry knowledge and commitment. You are welcome to contact us for a non-binding initial consultation. Together we will find the experts who can help you with your challenge.
