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Common Colorectal Cancer
Myths and Misconceptions


"Even though colorectal cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the U.S., not enough people talk about it. Not everyone feels comfortable talking about their bowels, and because of this stigma, it’s easier for people to have misconceptions about colorectal cancer. Being aware of the facts can have potentially life-saving benefits." -- Colorectal Cancer Alliance

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a serious health concern for many and yet, unfortunately, there are still a large number of myths and misconceptions surrounding it like a bunch of precancerous polyps. Remember, understanding the facts about colorectal cancer is crucial for early detection and prevention. Always consult with healthcare practitioners for personalized medical advice and follow recommended screening guidelines. This list was compiled by a recently diagnosed patient (weroland) in an attempt to alleviate feelings of impending doom, not by a healthcare professional, and was inspired by Common Cancer Myths and Misconceptions.


Colorectal cancer only affects the elderly.

Not true. While the risk increases with age, colorectal cancer can affect people of any age, including younger adults. Rates of colorectal cancer in people under 50 have been increasing and have risen in young people by an estimated 2.2% per year while at the same time, the rate in people aged 65 or older has dropped.


Colorectal cancer is rare.

Contrary to this belief, colorectal cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men and women combined, and the fourth most common cancer overall. Roughly 1 in 25 women and 1 in 23 men will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer in their lifetime.


Only those with a family history of colorectal cancer are at risk.

While family history is a risk factor, other factors such as obesity, inflammatory bowel disease, and lifestyle choices (like diet, smoking, and alcohol use) also increase the risk, as do a variety of other environmental factors.


Colonoscopies aren’t safe.

Not true. While there are small risks, like with any medical procedure, outcomes like bleeding or perforation during a colonoscopy are incredibly rare and are far outweighed by the benefit of identifying precancerous polyps or early-stage cancer.


Colonoscopies are the only screening option for colorectal cancer.

In addition to colonoscopy, screening options include stool tests and computer tomographic colonography (virtual colonoscopy). Each test has its benefits and is recommended based on individual circumstances.


Abdominal pain and bleeding are the most common symptoms.

No. The most common symptom of colon and/or rectal cancer is no symptoms! If symptoms such as bleeding, persistent abdominal discomfort, changing bowel habits, weakness, fatigue, and/or unexplained weight loss are present, they may very well be indicative of later-stage cancer.


A rectal cancer diagnosis means major surgery.

Not necessarily, as advances in treatment have changed (at least) the approach to rectal cancer, often involving less invasive options as well as a combination of chemotherapy and radiation before surgery would be considered or attempted.


Colon cancer needs extensive treatment over a long period of time.

Maybe, maybe not. Many colorectal cancers can be treated with a relatively common surgical procedure. Early detection significantly improves outcomes and reduces recurrence.


Most of the time, when one is diagnosed with colon cancer, it has already spread.

Early detection through regular screenings can catch cancer before it spreads. In case it isn't obvious by now, get screened sooner than later.


If the cancer has spread, life expectancy has decreased. Colorectal cancer is always fatal.

Ambiguous statements at best. More treatment options are available than ever before, and survival rates for advanced colorectal cancer have improved significantly. Do remember that ALL stages are treatable! With early detection and appropriate treatment, many people with colorectal cancer can have a good prognosis and live long, healthy lives.


Women don’t need to get colonoscopies.

Absolutely not true; women are just as susceptible to colorectal cancer as men and should follow the same screening guidelines.


Screening and treatment recommendations straight from the internet are safe and accurate.

Uh, no. Results are frequently published in scientific journals to further advancements in treatment and facilitate scientific discovery. But there are often nuances that a headline or brief news story may not perfectly communicate to readers. “You have to dive into the details of a study that may call into question the need for a colonoscopy, or lead someone to believe they only need a certain type of treatment,” said Jaime Bohl, M.D.. “Of course, patient education and self-advocacy are incredibly important, but the best care decisions are made in concert with a trusted provider.” Actually, this applies to most of the information out there. For instance, the first three sources below are predominately the same article with only minor differences between them, and they are not the only variations I found. Do your own due diligence, and speak with trusted professionals whenever possible. Oh, and get screened if that hasn't been made readily apparent.


Compiled from the following sources, amongst others:
https://colorectalcancer.org/article/five-myths-about-colorectal-cancer
https://www.masseycancercenter.org/news/common-myths-and-misconceptions-about-colorectal-cancer/
https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/colorectal-cancer-myths-and-facts
https://fascrs.org/patients/diseases-and-conditions/a-z/colon-cancer-myths-vs-reality
https://www.cbsnews.com/baltimore/news/colorectal-cancer-myths-and-misconceptions/
https://utswmed.org/medblog/colon-cancer-myths/
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/colon-rectal-cancer/about/key-statistics.html
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9177054/pdf/nihms-1781655.pdf


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