Cancer Information

Colon Cancer

Colon cancer affects about 1 person in 20 and, while highly curable in its earliest stages, is the second leading cause of death from malignant disease in the western world. Although usually preceded by an easily recognized pre-malignant lesion, a polyp, diagnosis is often not made until late in the disease. The development of colon cancer seems to be associated with a diet rich in animal fats and low in fiber and calcium. Personal risk factors for developing colon cancer include: age over 50, a history of inflammatory bowel disease, a history of colon polyps, or having a close family member with colon cancer.

Regular colon screenings through colonoscopy are recommended for people over the age of 50. When undergoing regular cancer screenings, if a cancer is diagnosed, even when that cancer is invasive, it is found in its early stages and a cure is likely. Three facts about colon cancer are worth enumerating here. Fact one, 90% of all colon cancers found during routine screening colonoscopies are cured.  Fact two, 90% of colon cancers arise from acquired genetic mutations and occur in people over the age of 50, the age at which routine screening-colonoscopies should commence. Fact three, more than 80% of all colon cancers should be prevented or cured if all at risk individuals, which means everyone upon turning 50, underwent screening.   The simple math is overwhelming.  If routine colon cancer screening guidelines were followed, more than 80% of colon cancer deaths would be avoided. 

For more in depth information, please read Colon Cancer Answers by Dr. Bruce Feinberg.

Colon Cancer Treatment Summaries