Research reveals failures in seeking care for colorectal cancer symptoms and reinforces the importance of early diagnosis and cancer prevention.
A study conducted by A.C.Camargo Cancer Center, in partnership with Nexus, shows a worrying contrast in the behavior of Brazilians regarding colorectal cancer. According to an article published by CNN Brazil on July 23, 2026, although most recognize that symptoms such as blood in the stool and persistent changes in bowel function are warning signs, many people still fail to seek medical attention immediately.
The survey interviewed more than 2,000 Brazilians across all regions of the country and reveals that knowledge about cancer symptoms does not always result in quick action. This delay can compromise early diagnosis, reduce treatment possibilities, and increase the risk of complications. The scenario becomes even more relevant because, according to the National Cancer Institute (INCA), Brazil is expected to record 53,810 new cases of colorectal cancer per year during the 2026-2028 triennium, making the disease the second most common type of cancer in the country.
Colorectal cancer is concerning, but still seems distant to most Brazilians
Despite the high incidence of the disease, the study shows that colorectal cancer is still part of the reality for few respondents. Only 21% reported knowing someone who has received this diagnosis, with 15% being a close family member and 6% a friend or acquaintance. Another 75% said they have never lived with a patient.
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This distance helps explain why many people still underestimate the importance of cancer prevention and medical investigation at the first signs. When the disease is not part of everyday life, the tendency is to believe that the problem is unlikely to happen to oneself.
Cancer symptoms are known, but the reaction is still far from ideal
The research indicates that 8 out of 10 Brazilians recognize the presence of blood in the stool or changes in bowel function for more than a month as serious. Among them, 42% classify these symptoms as “very serious”.
The rate rises to 44% among people who have had close contact with someone diagnosed with the disease. Even so, the direct association between these signs and colorectal cancer is not yet fully established.
The survey shows that 67% agree that these symptoms may indicate the disease, but only 24% demonstrate total conviction. Another 43% agree only moderately. This result shows that the knowledge exists but still needs to be strengthened to encourage the pursuit of early diagnosis.
Early diagnosis depends on quick action in response to the first signs
Recognizing the symptoms is just the first step. The biggest challenge is turning this perception into action.
Among the respondents who said they had noticed blood in the stool — a group equivalent to 9% of the sample — only 59% sought medical attention immediately. The others adopted behaviors that may delay early diagnosis.
According to the research:
- 19% waited for the symptom to disappear on its own;
- 10% waited days or weeks before seeing a doctor;
- 7% resorted to dietary changes or home remedies;
- 3% bought medications on their own;
- 1% researched on the internet before seeking professional guidance.
Experts from the A.C.Camargo Cancer Center warn that this type of behavior can favor the silent progression of colorectal cancer, reducing the chances of less aggressive treatment.
Simple test is still unknown and limits cancer prevention
Another data point that caught the researchers’ attention involves the Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT), a tool used to identify signs of the disease even before the appearance of cancer symptoms.
Despite the importance of the exam, 67% of Brazilians stated they have never heard of it. Only 11% have undergone the procedure, while 21% said they know about it but have never taken the test.
The lack of awareness is even greater in some groups:
- 85% among young people aged 16 to 24;
- 76% among men;
- 73% among people with lower income;
- 72% among those who only studied up to elementary school.
Among people who have already had contact with colorectal cancer, this scenario changes. The percentage of unawareness drops to 56%, while the completion of the exam rises to 21%. Among those who have never lived with the disease, only 8% have taken the PSO. These numbers reinforce the importance of cancer prevention through information campaigns and expanding access to screening tests.
Intestinal health requires attention even before symptoms appear
Experts emphasize that taking care of intestinal health does not just mean seeing a doctor when symptoms arise. Prevention starts much earlier and involves habits that can reduce various risk factors.
Among the main recommendations are:
- maintaining a diet rich in fibers, fruits, and vegetables;
- engaging in regular physical activity;
- controlling body weight;
- avoiding excessive consumption of processed meats;
- reducing alcohol intake;
- not smoking.
These habits contribute to improving intestinal health and are part of cancer prevention strategies, although they do not completely eliminate the risk of developing the disease. Additionally, people with a family history should discuss with their doctor the need to start screening earlier, as per professional guidance.
Regional differences show that access to information is still unequal
The research also identified important differences between the profiles of the respondents. Brazilians with better financial conditions showed a greater tendency to seek care immediately after noticing blood in their stool. In this group, 86% sought medical assistance without delay.
Among people over 60 years old, this percentage reached 72%. The same rate was recorded among residents of the Southeast Region. Women also demonstrated more preventive behavior, with 63% seeking help quickly, compared to 54% of men.
Meanwhile, among residents of the North and Midwest regions, 43% said they preferred to just wait for the symptom to pass before seeking care. These data show that social, economic, and regional factors still directly influence the speed of early diagnosis and care for intestinal health.
Information and prevention remain the main allies
The increase in colorectal cancer cases reinforces the need to expand access to quality information. The research shows that many Brazilians can already recognize the main cancer symptoms, but still hesitate to seek medical care, a behavior that can compromise treatment.
Experts from the A.C.Camargo Cancer Center emphasize that signs such as blood in the stool, persistent changes in bowel function, frequent abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Strengthening cancer prevention, encouraging early diagnosis, and promoting habits aimed at intestinal health continue to be the most effective strategies to reduce the impact of the disease and increase the chances of cure.
