If you are facing a possible colorectal cancer diagnosis, it can be difficult to know what to do going forward. What questions do you need to ask the doctor? What comes next? Here are a few of the most frequently asked questions that patients at the Anchorage Cancer Center ask, so you know the basic answers going in.
THE QUESTIONS
Who Gets Colorectal Cancer?
The fact is that anyone can get colorectal cancer, it just depends on whether or not abnormal cells develop. Annually, about 137,000 cases are diagnosed, and about 50,000 people die from the condition. It is one of the most treatable forms of cancer, but often it goes undetected until it is at an advanced stage.
Does Food Intolerance Increase the Odds?
There is very little data correlating lactose or gluten intolerance and colorectal cancers. There is evidence, however, that the regular consumption of dairy products could lessen the risk of colorectal cancers.
Is There a Connection Between Stomach Cancer and Colorectal Cancer?
There is no direct correlation between stomach cancers and colorectal cancers for most people. The exception is when people have a certain genetic variant that causes a condition called Hereditary NonPolyposis Colorectal Cancer. This variant also increases the risk of stomach cancers.
Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome Considered a Risk Factor?
No. IBS patients have normal life expectancies unless they develop other conditions that alter their health.
CONTACT US FOR AN APPOINTMENT
Your Anchorage Cancer Center is ready to help when you have been diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Contact us immediately if you need an appointment, a referral, or more information. Early detection and treatment is the key, and you will have the best options when you work with experienced doctors who have a history of successfully treating colorectal cancers.