Local colon cancer survivor urges screenings after losing sister to disease
DETROIT – March is colorectal cancer awareness month. Related: When should you start getting screened for colon cancer? A huge important part of my life,” said Linda Graffin, a colon cancer survivor who lost her sister to the disease. AdGraffin is now an ambassador for the organization, Fight Colorectal Cancer. “If I can save one person like my sister saved me, it’s worth it,” said Graffin.
When should you start getting screened for colon cancer?
The death of Chadwick Boseman and the loss of long-time sports writer and radio host Jamie Samuelson are raising awareness about the number of younger people being diagnosed with colon cancer. Colon cancer cases in people under the age of 50 have been rising by about 2 percent annually. Traditionally, colon cancer screening started at age 50 but that recommendation has been pushed down to 45. Screen should be started at younger ages for people who are at higher risk for colon cancer, according to Dr. Joel Appel, chief of hematology oncology at DMC Sinai Grace. That includes those with a history of inflammatory bowel diseases, people who received radiation to their abdomen or pelvis and anyone with a family history of colon cancer.
Paul Gross: My first colonoscopy
I actually met Dr. Szilagy at last year's American Cancer Society Relay for Life in West Bloomfield. The whole process started with a consultation, where Dr. Szilagy assessed my medical history and current physical condition, and explained how the procedure works. Dr. Szilagy then came over, and I expected the standard "everything looks fine," line that he probably gives a lot of patients. If you've been putting off your colonoscopy because you're scared, don't be. Colon cancer kills about 50,000 people a year.