As experts in oncology, we believe we have a duty to educate people about colon cancer and colon cancer treatment. That’s why our expert, Dr. Iacoboni has answered some of the most common questions people have about colon cancer below. Incidentally, if you have a question that isn’t answered please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team. We are always here to offer support and advice to those who need it.
Are colonoscopies the only way to detect colon cancer?
There are actually several ways to detect colon cancer. That being said, a colonoscopy is the most common and the most effective way of screening for colon cancer. Other options to detect colon cancer is to have a fecal immunochemical test (an FIT) or a computer tomographic colonography (a CT). An FIT test can be done at home by collecting a stool sample, which is then sent to a lab. A CT test is essentially a virtual colonoscopy whereby your doctor can get an image of your colon to check for tumors. The American Cancer Society provides screening guidelines for colon cancer here: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/colon-rectal-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/acs-recommendations.html
Are colonoscopies as bad as they sound?
Patients almost always get sedated before having a colonoscopy. This means that they rarely feel a thing and often don’t remember the process. The only bad thing about this is that someone will have to drive you home. In truth, many people find the day before the exam to be the worst as you must drink a cleansing drink that causes several bowel movements, and occasionally gas and bloating.
Should I get a colonoscopy if I am over 50?
Colon cancer becomes increasingly common with age. If you are over 50 and you haven’t yet had a colonoscopy (even if your doctor hasn’t recommended one) you should definitely book one in. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Should I still get a colonoscopy even if I don’t have any symptoms?
You don’t need to show symptoms to have colon cancer. Many people are diagnosed with the disease when they are feeling absolutely fine. If you are over 50, even if you don’t show any symptoms, we highly recommend getting a colonoscopy.
Do women need to have colonoscopies?
It is a myth that women don’t need to have a colonoscopy. If you are over 50, whether you are male or female, you should get checked.
By the time I have a diagnosis, will the colon cancer have already spread to other parts of the body?
Absolutely not. We have had many patients who have had colon cancer, received treatment and gone on to live long and happy lives. Simple tests can be done to see if your cancer is spread, but just because you have colon cancer it doesn’t mean other parts of your body have tumors, too.
Is it true that colon cancer can’t be cured and I won’t live very long?
This isn’t true. There are more treatments for colon cancer now than ever before and survival rates have increased dramatically. Colon cancer can be caught early and can be treated effectively to the point where patients can live for years afterward.
Is there an effective natural alternative to colon cancer treatment?
While the internet is filled with stories on people being ‘cured’ naturally there are no published studies demonstrating that ‘natural’ only treatment approaches for colon cancer result in people still alive 5-10 years later. However, conventional treatments, like chemotherapy, which focuses on killing cancer, may also weaken your body. At Causenta, we focus on an integrated approach that offers the best of both worlds. We will help your body’s natural ability to fight cancer and also guide you on how to complement conventional treatments. Starting with good health and nutrition, and complemented with a personalized treatment protocol, we boost your body’s natural immune system to help it beat cancer cells while minimizing side effects.
For more information on our innovative cancer treatment, advice or if your question hasn’t been answered here, please get in touch with a member of our team today.
