Many myths about colorectal cancer can lead to misunderstandings and unnecessary fear. Let us clarify these misconceptions about colon cancer and rectum cancer and discover the truths by colorectal cancer specialist. Common myths about colorectal cancer and reality as advised by Oncologists treating colorectal cancer are:
Myth 1: Only individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer are at risk
Reality: Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer globally. Around 90% of new colon cancer cases occur in individuals without any known genetic risk factors. Lifestyle choices, such as dietary habits, obesity, tobacco use, and alcohol consumption, significantly contribute to the increasing incidence of colon cancer.
Myth 2: Screening is only necessary if you have symptoms
Reality: Early colorectal cancer often presents no symptoms That’s why it is crucial to have regular screenings for early detection and prevention. Individuals who are 45 years old and older should think about getting screened, and those with a family history should begin even sooner.
Myth 2: Screening is only necessary if you have symptoms
Reality: Early colorectal cancer often presents no symptoms That’s why it is crucial to have regular screenings for early detection and prevention. Individuals who are 45 years old and older should think about getting screened, and those with a family history should begin even sooner.
Myth 3: Colorectal cancer only affects older men.
Reality: Colorectal cancer affects both genders without bias. It ranks as the second most common cause of death due to cancer for both men and women. The rate of occurrence among individuals under 50 is rising by 1-2% annually.
Myth 4: There is nothing you can do to prevent colorectal cancer
Reality: There are methods to prevent colorectal cancer:
- Stop smoking.
- Maintain a healthy weight and BMI through nutritious eating and regular exercise.
- Limit your intake of red and processed meats.
- Do regular colorectal cancer screening.
Myth 5: Colonoscopies are the only way to detect colorectal cancer
Reality: While colonoscopies are highly accurate, there are also other methods, like stool tests and virtual CT colonoscopies, that can detect potential issues early.
Myth 6: Alterations in stool color always means that colorectal cancer is present
Reality: Change in stool color can occur due to numerous factors, such as diet and medicines. However, it is important to see an oncologist if it doesn’t improve.
Myth 7: If there are no symptoms, then colorectal cancer is unlikely to be present
Fact: Many believe that a lack of symptoms means cancer is not present. In truth, cancer can grow silently in the early stages. By the time symptoms occur, it may reach stage II or III, highlighting the need to consult a colorectal cancer specialist even in case of the slightest problem.
Myth 8: Colorectal cancer is always fatal
Reality: Colorectal cancer is highly treatable when found early. Over 90% of patients with localized colorectal cancer can achieve successful outcomes through proper surgical intervention. Now, complete treatment is possible even in selected patients of stage IV.
Myth 9: If I have colon cancer, it means extensive and expensive treatment over a long period
Reality: Many colon cancers can be treated with standard surgical approaches. Early detection often leads to less invasive, more effective, and more affordable treatment options.
Myth 10: If I have colon or rectal cancer, will I have a stoma bag for the rest of my life?
Reality: Many patients can retain normal bowel function, and stoma bags are unnecessary. Thanks to advanced surgical techniques, such as sphincter-sparing surgeries, patients can maintain their quality of life with the treatment of colorectal cancer.
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