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HOUSTON – It's a totally preventable disease, and yet, the American Cancer Society predicts that more than 51,000 people will die from colorectal cancer this year.
Patients become younger and younger. In fact, a Houston woman, Brittany Dodson, was only 26 years old when she was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer.
"It was a shock, for sure," said Dodson. "I had bleeding and pain symptoms.
She said she lived with the symptoms for about a year before going to see a doctor in 2016. She was diagnosed and the treatment, which included surgery, started immediately.
In 2017, Dodson was declared without cancer by doctors at Memorial Hermann Hospital.
Brittany Dodson
At age 29, she is now seizing every opportunity to educate the public about the easy screening process for colorectal cancer. March is the month of colon cancer awareness.
"And, if you have symptoms, have it checked," said Dodson. "Because it could save your life."
"Early detection cures the disease," said Dr. G.S. Ramesh. The gastroenterologist at Hermann Memorial Hospital considers that 98% of colon cancer cases develop from a polyp found in the colon. "And it takes about five to ten years for a polyp to become clever."
For example, tests such as colonoscopy and home stool testing are some of the tests that can be done for early detection.
In fact, in May 2018, the American Cancer Society lowered its age recommendation for first-time screenings. He went from 50 to 45 years old.
"If they do not have a family history of colon cancer, they will say that I do not have a family history, I have no symptoms", said Dr. Ramesh. : I do not need to be examined. It's a myth. The biggest risk factor for colon cancer is being over 50 years old. "
Ramesh adds that lifestyle changes can also reduce your risk of colon cancer.
Stop smoking. Reduce your consumption of alcohol. Limit the amount of red meat you eat and increase the amount of fruits and vegetables. More fiber is also beneficial for the colon, says Ramesh.
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