Understanding Bowel Cancer in Healthy Individuals: Surgeon Explains

Understanding the Rising Global Phenomenon of Bowel Cancer

Across the globe, the rates of bowel cancer are increasing, particularly impacting young adults. This growing global health concern has been described by experts as a ‘rising global phenomenon’, with the most concerning increases noted in the UK, according to Cancer Research. Further research is needed to fully understand the causes behind this trend.

The Personal Experience of Danni Duncan

Among those affected by this worrying trend is Danni Duncan, a health professional who was recently diagnosed with bowel cancer. Danni, a health and fitness coach from Melbourne, underwent surgery to remove the tumor, her appendix, and part of her intestine, just a few weeks after her devastating diagnosis. The diagnosis came as a shock to her 52,000 Instagram followers, to whom she revealed her situation after a series of tests and a colonoscopy.

The Shocking Diagnosis & Hypothesis

Danni’s dedication to health and the absence of a history of the disease in her family made the diagnosis all the more surprising. Her surgeon suggested an explanation for her health condition. According to him, bowel cancer takes 15 to 20 years to develop, dating back to a time when people were exposed to carcinogens through certain foods, environmental factors, and lifestyle habits. Danni decided to share this hypothesis with her followers, urging them to reassess their dietary habits.

Dealing with Stage 2 Bowel Cancer

Following her surgery, Danni received news that her cancer was at stage 2, meaning it had spread into the outer wall of the bowel or into nearby tissues or organs, as described by Cancer Research. However, thankfully, it had not spread to the lymph nodes or distant parts of the body. Danni’s cancer is considered high-risk stage 2, as it has extended into her lymph channel, necessitating a consultation with an oncologist.

Treatment & Survival

Treatment for stage 2 bowel cancer usually involves surgery and chemotherapy, which can shrink the tumor and reduce the likelihood of recurrence. According to studies, around 85% of people with this form of cancer survive for five years or more post-diagnosis. The exact cause of bowel cancer remains unknown, but factors such as diet, weight, alcohol consumption, and age can increase the risk, according to Macmillan.