Crucial Insights on Colorectal Cancer from Dr. Karen Zaghiyan

Dr. Karen Zaghiyan, a leading colorectal surgeon at Cedars-Sinai in Los Angeles, recently shared some important insights about bowel cancer in a popular Instagram video. Her advice is aimed at anyone worried about or diagnosed with colorectal cancer.

She emphasizes the critical need for early screening, specifically colonoscopies, and encourages patients to seek second opinions to confirm diagnoses. Dr. Zaghiyan cautions against trusting unverified treatments and highlights the importance of taking prompt, informed steps if any symptoms appear. Her guidance underlines how timely medical decisions can significantly enhance outcomes, pointing to the key roles of awareness, professional advice, and early intervention in battling colorectal cancer.

5 Essential Truths About Colon Cancer

1. Start Screening Early

Dr. Zaghiyan insists that everyone should get screened for colorectal cancer starting at age 45, even if they feel fine or have no family history. Colonoscopies enable doctors to thoroughly examine the colon and remove any precancerous polyps before they turn cancerous. Unlike at-home stool tests, which may miss many polyps, colonoscopies are over 95% effective at detecting and preventing this type of cancer. Proper prep, including dietary changes and laxatives, is necessary for the test to be accurate, and patients should arrange for someone to drive them home due to sedation. Early screenings can significantly raise the likelihood of identifying cancer at a treatable stage.

2. Take Screening and Diagnosis Seriously

Early detection is vital for improving survival rates among colorectal cancer patients. Dr. Zaghiyan shares that those diagnosed in the first stage have around a 90% chance of living at least five years, whereas the figure drops to just 10% for those diagnosed at stage four. Symptoms such as rectal bleeding, shifts in bowel habits, abdominal discomfort, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss should never be overlooked. Ignoring them can permit the disease to advance, complicating treatment and reducing chances for a favorable outcome. Treating diagnosis and screening with urgency could be life-saving.

3. Don’t Hesitate to Seek Second Opinions

Dr. Zaghiyan strongly advises consulting other experts when there are concerns about a diagnosis. Misdiagnoses can happen, and discussing with multiple professionals can ensure that patients receive the most accurate evaluation and treatment strategy. For example, rectal bleeding might be mistakenly linked to hemorrhoids without a proper investigation. Patients are encouraged to ask questions and challenge their care plans, as verifying a diagnosis can safeguard against errors and open up access to the latest treatment options.

4. Be Wary of Unverified Remedies

Online information and alternative treatments can often be misleading or even harmful. Dr. Zaghiyan warns against relying on unproven remedies like extreme diets or supplements that lack scientific support. Instead, it’s better to follow evidence-based medical guidance and consult qualified cancer dietitians for safe complementary therapies. Those interested in novel approaches should consider participating in clinical trials with stringent oversight rather than turning to anecdotal solutions. Sticking with proven medical advice greatly enhances treatment success rates while minimizing risks.

5. Act Promptly and Trust Medical Advice

Delaying treatment can pose serious risks. Dr. Zaghiyan points out that addressing concerning symptoms or confirmed diagnoses right away can distinguish between manageable and advanced disease. It’s crucial for patients to follow their doctor’s guidelines without unnecessary delay, maintain medication schedules, and attend follow-up appointments. Waiting to see if symptoms subside is not advisable; timely intervention greatly boosts survival chances.

Symptoms and Risks of Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer often progresses silently, demonstrating few or no early warning signs. Understanding both symptoms and risk factors is vital for early detection, which can significantly boost survival chances. People should be alert to changes in their digestive health and seek medical attention if they notice persistent discomfort or unusual symptoms.

Common Symptoms:

• Blood in stool or rectal bleeding
• Ongoing changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or narrower stool)
• Abdominal discomfort, cramping, or bloating
• Fatigue and unexplained weight loss
• Frequent or urgent bowel movements

Risk Factors:

• Age over 45
• Family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
• Personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (like ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s)
• Obesity, smoking, or high intake of processed foods
• Lack of physical activity

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health routine or treatment.