8 Typical Myths Concerning Colon Cancer

The existence of colon cancer is often associated with a number of myths, and knowing about it is vital. There are lots of psychological impacts which can drastically put someone under stress and depression due to improper information and misconceptions. Here are some of the common myths concerning colon cancer.

1. Myth: Colon cancer is a fatal disease.

Fact: Early-stage colon cancer is curable. It has been seen that around 90% of patients with localised colorectal cancer live five years after diagnosis. It’s an unfortunate case that only one-third of colorectal cancers are diagnosed at an early stage. 
Usually, people seek medical attention after a colon or rectal cancer has spread to distant parts of the body, which decreases their chances of being cured.

2. Myth: You need to be screened only if you have symptoms.

Fact: Screening is the process of looking for cancer in someone who has no symptoms. Colorectal cancer screening should be done on all men and women over the age of 45. People with a personal or family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, or a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, as well as people who have worrying symptoms such as rectal bleeding, are considered high risk and should be checked before the age of 45. You should talk to your colorectal surgeons or other healthcare professionals about when you should begin screening. 

3. Myth: Only individuals with a family history of colon cancer get it.

Fact: There is a comparatively higher chance of getting colon cancer in individuals with a  history. But this can be caused by an array of factors like tobacco smoking, heavy alcohol use and poor diet. 

4. Myth: I can't prevent getting colorectal cancer.

Fact: There is always scope to decrease the risk of colon cancer by modifying one's lifestyle. Colon cancer risk can be reduced by eating a low-fat, high-vegetable, fruit-rich diet and exercising regularly.
The majority of colorectal cancer is caused by precancerous polyps, which are growths on the lining of the colon and rectum. Screening procedures can detect and remove polyps before they become cancerous. Colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, stool testing kits, and virtual colonoscopy are among them.

5. Myth: Getting colorectal cancer is not affected by age.

Fact: Colorectal cancer occurs most frequently in people aged 45 and older. A study suggests that you start getting cancer screenings when you’re 45.

6. Myth: Colonoscopy is a difficult process.

Fact: Colonoscopy is not a painful procedure to undergo. Sedation or anaesthesia is generally used during the procedure to minimise any discomfort. It typically takes 30 to 40 minutes for the procedure, and after that, it takes up to an hour to recover. 

7. Myth: Colorectal cancer is a man’s disease.

Fact: Though many people assume colon cancer is mainly a man's disease, almost as many women as men are affected by colorectal cancer. In India, the rate of colon cancer for men and women is similar despite having declined rates as per the health ministry records.

8. Myth: Colonoscopy is dangerous for one's health.

Fact: Colonoscopy is a relatively risk-free procedure. Still, if you experience severe stomach discomfort, dizziness, fever, chills, or rectal bleeding following your colonoscopy, consult your doctor. A person who has undergone a colonoscopy doesn't need to worry about colon cancer for the next 10 years. 

Colon Cancer treatment in Bangalore

If you are suffering from any symptoms of colon cancer or want to be diagnosed, visit MH Surgery Clinic. We provide the right colon cancer treatment from the start. Our specialised colorectal surgeons do the finest treatment and surgery by laparoscopic colectomy. Our team is highly experienced in dealing with colon cancer and serving the best medication and surgery. 

Colon cancer is treatable, preventable, and beatable, for any consultation If you experience any symptoms, contact MH Surgery Clinic for the best colorectal cancer treatment in Bangalore.