Colorectal cancer is claiming lives at an alarming rate among young adults under 50. According to recent statistics, it is now the number one cause of cancer death for men under 50 and the second cause of death among women in this age group.
Meet Jamie Comer, a 47-year-old survivor who was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer and given just months to live. Despite her dire prognosis, she chose not to give up. With 45 tumors on each side of her liver, Comer underwent extensive chemotherapy and surgery, receiving over 180 rounds of treatment.
Comer’s experience highlights the importance of early screening for colorectal cancer. A routine blood test at age 47 led to a colonoscopy at an earlier age than recommended – 45. While she credits this with potentially saving her life, Comer believes even younger people should be screened.
“If you person has a history of colon cancer in their family, the recommended age to get screened is 40,” she said. “If a member of that family got colon cancer at age 40, you should get screened at 30 – always 10 years earlier.”
Comer’s story serves as a reminder that colorectal cancer can affect anyone, regardless of age. With the recommended screening age for men and women under 50 being 45 and 40 respectively, it is crucial to prioritize early detection and prevention.
Experts emphasize that early screening can significantly reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. “To the problem in your life, you are the answer and you are the solution,” Comer insisted. “You have to figure it out.”
If you or a loved one is at risk for colorectal cancer, don’t wait – take control of your health today.
Source: https://abc7news.com/post/screen-early-bay-area-woman-stage-4-colon-cancer-shares-dire-message-colorectal-awareness-month/16076982