Let’s Talk Dirty: Colon Cancer and Keeping Your Gut in Check
Over my career as a primary care doctor, I’ve diagnosed way too many people with advanced colon cancer. The kicker? The age of diagnosis seems to keep getting younger. What used to be a disease we associated with the silver-haired crowd is now popping up in people in their 30s and 40s. This isn’t a trend we want to see, so let’s talk about how to stay ahead of the curve—and the colonoscope.
Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Colon cancer can be sneaky, but your body often throws out some clues. Watch for:
Changes in your bathroom habits—and I don’t mean redecorating your toilet. Persistent diarrhea or constipation can be a red flag.
Blood in your stool—and no, it’s not “just hemorrhoids” until we’ve ruled out something bigger.
Unexplained weight loss—if your jeans fit better but you’ve made zero lifestyle changes, that’s worth a conversation.
Abdominal discomfort—cramps or bloating that feel different from your usual post-taco Tuesday woes.
If any of these sound familiar, don’t brush them off.
The Family Connection
Family history is a big deal in colon cancer. If Grandma, Uncle Joe, or Cousin Susie has had colon cancer, your risk could be higher. And if you’ve ever been told you’ve got a hereditary condition like Lynch syndrome, pay extra attention. Genetic testing can be a game-changer here—it’s quick, relatively simple, and helps us personalize your care.
Prevention: Your Gut Will Thank You
The good news? There’s a lot you can do to lower your risk of colon cancer. Start by eating more fiber—fruits, veggies, and whole grains are your friends here. Cut back on red and processed meats (sorry, bacon lovers), limit alcohol, and kick that smoking habit if you’ve got one. Regular exercise isn’t just for your heart—it helps keep your colon happy too. Healthy habits might not make you invincible, but they sure stack the odds in your favor.
Screening: Not as Bad as You Think
When it comes to catching colon cancer early, we’ve got options:
The Colonoscopy: The gold standard (pun fully intended). Yes, the prep isn’t fun, but it’s one day of discomfort to potentially save your life.
Stool Tests: These are less invasive and great for low-risk folks, but they’re not the end-all. If something comes back funky, guess what? You’re heading for that colonoscopy anyway.
CT Colonography: Sometimes called a “virtual colonoscopy.” High-tech and useful in certain cases, but not a replacement for the real thing.
Bottom line? There’s a screening method that works for everyone—it’s just about figuring out which one is right for you.
Let’s Talk About It
If you’re 45 or older, or have a family history of colon cancer, it’s time to start the conversation. Seeing your primary care provider is the best way to decide when and how to get screened. And if you’re not sure where to start, I’d love to help.
At The Gold Standard Health, I work with patients to make these decisions less scary and more straightforward (and maybe even a little funny—we’ll see how the jokes land). Together, we can figure out the best plan to keep you healthy.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get your colon cancer questions answered—and maybe a little peace of mind while we’re at it.
