The scurvy doctors be denyin' the wench a peek down her nether regions, but alas! Stage 3 cancer be lurkin'!
2024-01-26
Avast ye mateys! 'Tis a sorry tale indeed, as lass Brooks Bell, a mere 38 summers young, be struck with the dreaded scurvy of the colon. But fear not, for she be boldly flyin' the flag o' awareness and be raisin' the alarm amongst the youthful crew. Even Gastroenterologist Austin Chiang be lendin' his expertise to the cause!
Bell experienced rectal bleeding while traveling for a technology conference. Initially, doctors assured her that it was a common symptom and likely a hemorrhoid. But when the bleeding persisted, Bell sought another doctor who also suspected hemorrhoids. Frustrated with the lack of concern, Bell took matters into her own hands and scheduled an appointment with a gastroenterologist.
During the colonoscopy, doctors discovered a tumor in Bell's colon that was causing the bleeding. The tumor was cancerous, but fortunately, it was still at Stage III, which gave her an 87% chance of survival. Bell underwent surgery to remove part of her colon and underwent three months of intense chemotherapy.
Five years later, Bell is cancer-free and has become an advocate for early screening and prevention of colon cancer. She emphasizes the importance of listening to one's body and not dismissing symptoms, even at a young age. Bell also highlights the role of diet and exercise in reducing the risk of colon cancer.
Dr. Austin Chiang, a gastroenterologist, mentions the increase in consumption of red meat and ultra-processed foods, as well as rising obesity rates, as potential contributing factors to the rise in colon cancer cases. He recommends limiting the consumption of red meat and alcohol, staying physically active, and not smoking to reduce the risk.
Bell's experience highlights the need for awareness and early screening of colon cancer, especially among younger adults. She urges individuals to be proactive in taking care of their health and not to dismiss symptoms. Screening guidelines now recommend starting at age 45, but there are indications that screening should start even earlier.