There is no shortage of cancer information available, but it can be difficult to tell what is real and what is not. Four popular colon cancer myths are debunked by an experienced colon cancer doctor based in Kolkata, who is associated with several well-known hospitals in the city.

best colon cancer doctor


Myth: Colon cancer is only found in men.

Fact: The majority of people immediately link colon cancer with elderly men, however this is far from the case. Throughout the world, ethnic groups such as African Americans and Ashkenazi Jews have the highest rates of colorectal cancer incidence and mortality. Women, on the other hand, are just slightly less at risk than men. Colon cancer is the most common abdominal cancer in both men and women, despite the fact that it is fully avoidable. Starting around the age of 45–50, everyone should have a colonoscopy on a regular basis.

Myth: I haven't experienced any symptoms, thus a colonoscopy isn't necessary.

Fact: Regular colonoscopies are the most effective technique to diagnose and treat cancer at an early stage. It may be too late by the time symptoms appear. Unfortunately, because colon cancer symptoms are so common, they can sometimes go unnoticed. That isn't to say colon cancer isn't present. Changes in bowel habits, cramping or stomach pain, rectal bleeding, and dark stools are all signs to look out for. Regardless of your age, you should get a colonoscopy if you have any of these symptoms.

Myth: I'll require a colostomy bag if I have colon cancer.

Fact: Thanks to advancements in surgery, a colostomy bag is no longer always required following colon cancer treatmentin Kolkata. The Transanal Abdominal Transanal Radical Proctosigmoidectomy (TATA), an advanced procedure,  is able to remove cancer while preserving sphincter function, dramatically enhancing cancer patients' quality of life. You may not require a permanent colostomy bag depending on the location of your malignancy. Consult the colon cancer doctor about your alternatives.

Myth: Colon cancer is a life-threatening condition.

Fact: Colon cancer is a condition that is highly curable. The five-year survival rate is almost 90% when it is detected and treated early. Unfortunately, many people do not have regular colonoscopies, thus only around four out of ten patients are diagnosed early enough to receive the most effective treatment. Remember that this cancer is fully preventable if a polyp is removed before it becomes malignant.

Conclusion

Make an appointment with the best colon cancer doctor in Kolkata to learn more about your colon cancer risks.