Colonoscopy Helped Peter to Recover from Cancer

Colorectal cancer is deadly and widespread, yet it is relatively easier to detect, which can lower the risk of metastasis and increase the chance of recovery.

An enormous amount of resources, amounting to trillions of dollars, has been dedicated to mitigating the global burden of cancer for several decades. However, despite harnessing the power of science and technology, the progress achieved thus far has been disappointingly minimal.

Cancer, an exceptionally complex disease, continuously presents a formidable challenge to our intellect and intuition. Whatever we do, it finds a sneaky way to invade our bodies. It seems to have a combination of genetic, metabolic, and environmental factors.

Colorectal/colon cancer is a significant global health concern, accounting for many cancer-related deaths. It can have profound physical, mental, emotional, and financial impacts on people and their families.

Colorectal cancer might progress undetected, leading to devastating consequences. However, early detection through regular screenings and early diagnosis can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment, preventing metastasis and improving patient outcomes.

Let’s keep in mind that the most challenging aspect of cancer treatment, which often leads to unfavorable outcomes, is the metastasis of the disease to advanced stages. Metastasis refers to the spread of cancer cells from the original site (primary tumor) to other body parts.

However, when cancer is detected and treated in its earlier stages, the chances of successful outcomes significantly improve from healthspan and lifespan perspectives. Thus early detection can enhance the quality and quantity of life for people affected by this disease.

I wrote this piece to raise awareness about the risk factors and the importance of screening to encourage my readers to take proactive approaches and lifestyle steps with professional support to reduce the chances and burden of colorectal cancer.

First, I briefly share a friend’s inspiring story about who survived this deadly disease. I also provide an overview of colorectal cancer and the importance of screening, like using a colonoscopy, a technological marvel.

A Serendipitous Encounter Saving Peter’s Life

As a health and fitness enthusiast in his mid-50s, one day, Peter attended a community seminar informing members about the widespread colorectal cancer among middle-aged people.

The presenter’s captivating presentation revealed alarming statistics that caught the audience’s attention. According to BMJ, “colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer worldwide. Incidence rates were highest in Australia/ New Zealand and European regions.”

With a sense of urgency, the presenter, a public health doctor, outlined practical tips and critical action items tailored explicitly for middle-aged people like Peter.

Two vital actions stood out: stool tests and colonoscopies.

To Peter’s surprise, he recalled receiving a free stool test kit from the government some time ago, but he had brushed it aside, convinced that he couldn’t possibly have colon cancer since he showed no symptoms.

However, the seminar left a memorable impression on Peter’s mind, prompting him to visit his family doctor the very next day.

Fortunately, his doctor informed Peter that the stool test was also free of charge. He took the test. To Peter’s and the doctor’s surprise, the results indicated abnormalities. The pathologist urged further investigation.

Recognizing the situation’s urgency, Peter’s caring doctor wasted no time and promptly referred him to a gastroenterologist for a colonoscopy with compelling reasons highlighting the risks based on his medical history.

Within a week, Peter was invited, designating him as a priority patient at the hospital clinic. Despite initial reservations about the procedure’s invasiveness, Peter convened his courage and agreed to take the colonoscopy, appreciating its potential life-saving significance.

Under the skilled guidance of medical specialists, Peter’s rectum and colon were meticulously examined during the procedure. Their vigilance paid off when they stumbled upon a small, inconspicuous tumor that, if left undetected, could have unleashed havoc on Peter’s life.

With the tumor detected, Peter’s journey took him to a highly experienced oncologist who saved the lives of many patients from colorectal cancer.

The oncologist meticulously crafted a comprehensive and personalized treatment plan involving other specialists in the clinic. Minor surgery and targeted therapies became essential for Peter to defeat cancer.

Peter followed the doctor’s strategies and practical tactics from other specialists to promote colon health and minimize cancer risk.

Adjusting his diet, prioritizing quality sleep, and bidding farewell to a sedentary lifestyle became his new norm. Regular exercise, known for its protective effects against colorectal cancer, was prominent in his daily routine.

After another colonoscopy, he was informed that he no longer had any signs of cancer in his rectum or colon. He also had other tests for possible cancers, which I will cover in another story.

Peter and his family felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude, knowing he had been fortunate enough to detect his colorectal cancer earlier proactively.

Sadly, some of his friends, who were around the same age, had succumbed to the disease due to late detection. This realization was a poignant reminder of the critical importance of early detection and screening in saving lives.

After his recovery, Peter experienced a profound transformation and became an ardent advocate for promoting healthier dietary habits.

He passionately emphasizes the significant impact of making conscious choices to reduce the consumption of processed and overcooked foods while advocating for avoiding high-sugar drinks, unhealthy fats, excessive proteins, alcohol, and smoking.

He believes these changes are crucial in lowering the risks of colorectal cancer and promoting better health and overall well-being.

These valuable insights were imparted to him by knowledgeable and supportive specialists, reinforcing the importance of making informed choices about nutrition for overall well-being.

Moved by his experience, Peter became an ardent advocate for regular screenings, emphasizing the importance of taking proactive steps to safeguard one’s health. He firmly believed that early detection could be pivotal in the fight against colorectal cancer.

An Overview of Colorectal or Colon Cancer

As informed by CDC, “Colorectal cancer is a disease in which cells in the colon or rectum grow out of control. Sometimes it is called colon cancer for short. The colon is the large intestine or large bowel. The rectum is the passageway that connects the colon to the anus. Abnormal growths, called polyps, form in the colon or rectum.”

Historically, men have had slightly higher rates of colon cancer than women. However, the difference in incidence rates between men and women has been narrowing in recent years.

For example, in the UK, 2012–2014 incidence rates in adults aged 45 and over were significantly higher for males than females.

, 2012–2014 incidence rates in adults aged 45 and over were significantly higher for males than females.

Causes and Risk Factors

Colorectal cancer can develop due to various factors. Some inherited gene mutations increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer.

So family history matters. You can learn about the genetics of colorectal cancer from this NIH Book chapter.

Age is a significant risk factor, as most cases occur in people over 50.

A sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a diet high in processed foods are associated with an increased risk.

Additionally, some health conditions, especially inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, also increase the risk.

Screening, Detection, and Diagnosis

Early detection of colorectal cancer plays a crucial role in successful treatment outcomes. Screening tests, imaging studies, and confirmatory procedures are employed to diagnose the disease.

Stool tests, like the fecal occult blood test and fecal immunochemical test, are non-invasive screening methods that detect blood in the stool, which may indicate precancerous polyps.

A digital rectal exam is conducted by a doctor or nurse who inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to feel for lumps or anything else that seems unusual.

Screening methods are colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy, allowing specialists to visually examine the colon and rectum for abnormalities, remove polyps, and obtain tissue samples for further evaluation.

The main difference between colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy lies in the extent of the colon that is visualized. While a colonoscopy examines the entire colon, a sigmoidoscopy focuses on the lower portion of the colon. a Sigmoidoscopy may be performed as a screening tool or as an initial step.

There is also a tool called virtual colonoscopy. It uses a series of X-rays (computed tomography) to make a series of colon pictures. A computer puts the pictures together to create detailed images that may show polyps on the surface of the colon. This test is also called colonography or CT colonography.

Biopsy and DNA stool tests are also used for screening. A biopsy removes tissues to see under a microscope by a pathologist. DNA stool test checks genetic changes that may indicate colorectal cancer.

Symptoms and Signs

Symptoms and signs of colon and colorectal cancer can vary depending on the stage and location of the cancer. In the early stages, colorectal cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms.

Common symptoms and signs include constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, rectal bleeding, bright red or dark blood in stool, abdominal pain, bloating, too much gas, unintentional weight loss, cramps, weakness, or fatigue.

Treatment Methods

Treatment for colorectal cancer depends on factors like the stage of the disease, the tumor’s location, and the patient’s overall health.

Standard treatment options include surgery, where the tumor and nearby lymph nodes are surgically removed.

Radiation therapy employs high-energy radiation to target and destroy cancer cells.

Chemotherapy uses drugs to eliminate cancer cells throughout the body.

Targeted therapy focuses on specific molecules involved in cancer growth.

Immunotherapy stimulates the body’s immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells.

Conclusions and Takeaways

Colorectal/colon cancer is a significant global health concern, causing a heavy toll on cancer-related mortality and its profound impact on patients and their families.

The insidious nature of colorectal cancer often allows it to advance undetected, resulting in devastating consequences.

However, the key to combating this disease lies in early detection through regular screenings and prompt diagnosis, significantly enhancing the prospects of successful treatment while preventing metastasis and improving patient outcomes.

It is essential to remember that metastasis, the most formidable challenge in cancer treatment, creates the worst outcome, as treating cancers when they spread through the body can be highly challenging.

Here are some practical steps to lower the risk of colorectal cancer.

Get regular screenings, especially after 50.

Observe signs and symptoms.

Avoid processed foods and consume adequate calories and essential nutrients from whole foods.

Minimize exposure to toxins and pathogens.

Stay hydrated, lower alcohol consumption, and quit smoking.

Maintain a healthy weight, manage stress, and get nightly restorative sleep.

Avoid a sedentary lifestyle and do at least 150 minutes of weekly exercise.

Peter’s story serves as a wake-up call, urging us to embrace preventive measures. By scheduling regular screenings, adopting healthy habits, and raising awareness, we can collectively combat colorectal cancer and save lives.

Thank you for reading my perspectives. I wish you a healthy and happy life.

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