Let’s be honest—no one enjoys talking about colon health. It’s not exactly dinner table conversation. But staying silent about it can be dangerous. Misinformation spreads like wildfire, and when it comes to colon cancer, myths can stop people from getting the screenings that could save their lives.
Since March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, let’s set the record straight. Here are some of the most common myths about colon cancer—busted.
Colon Cancer Is Just an “Old Man’s Disease”
If colon cancer had a face, it wouldn’t have wrinkles and a cane. It doesn’t discriminate. While the risk does increase with age, younger adults are getting diagnosed at an alarming rate. Cases among people under 50 have been rising for years. And it’s not just men—women are just as likely to get colon cancer as men.
The takeaway? You have a reason to pay attention if you have a digestive system.
I Feel Fine, So I Can’t Have Colon Cancer
Colon cancer is sneaky. It doesn’t always wave red flags or cause pain early on. Many people feel completely normal until the disease has advanced. That’s why routine screenings matter. By the time symptoms like blood in the stool or unexplained weight loss show up, treatment becomes more complicated.
Imagine catching a small leak in your roof before it turns into a flood. Getting checked early makes all the difference.
If It Doesn’t Run in My Family, I’m in the Clear
More than half of all colon cancer cases have nothing to do with family history. Yes, genetics can play a role, but lifestyle and environmental factors matter just as much. A poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, and excessive alcohol use can all increase your risk.
Colon cancer doesn’t care if your ancestors dodged it—it can still show up. That’s why screening guidelines apply to everyone, regardless of family history.
Holding in a Bowel Movement Can Cause Cancer
We’ve all been there—stuck in traffic, in a long meeting, or just not in the mood to deal with it. But delaying a trip to the restroom now and then won’t cause cancer.
Chronic constipation can be uncomfortable and may lead to other digestive issues like ulcerative colitis, but it’s not a direct cause of colon cancer. What matters is paying attention to changes in bowel habits. If something feels off—like persistent constipation or diarrhea—it’s worth discussing with a doctor.
A Colonoscopy Is Painful and Embarrassing
Nobody wakes up excited for a colonoscopy, but the truth is, it’s not as bad as you think. Thanks to sedation, most people don’t remember a thing. The worst part? The prep. But even that has improved over the years, with more tolerable options available.
More importantly, this simple test can detect and remove precancerous polyps before they become dangerous. A little temporary discomfort is a small price to pay for peace of mind.
If I’m Diagnosed, It’s a Death Sentence
Hearing the word “cancer” is terrifying. However, colon cancer is highly treatable when caught early. In fact, when diagnosed at stage I, the survival rate is over 90%. Even at more advanced stages, there are effective treatment options.
Early screening detection is crucial. Screenings help catch the disease before it becomes life-threatening.
Don’t Let Myths Keep You from Getting Screened
Misinformation can be dangerous, especially when it keeps you from taking action. Colon cancer is preventable, treatable, and beatable—if caught early.
If you’re 45 or older (or younger with risk factors), don’t wait. Schedule your colon cancer screening with Digestive Health Centers of Texas today. Our expert gastroenterologists make the process simple, comfortable, and—most importantly—potentially lifesaving. Book your appointment now and take control of your health.