Candid Talk about Cancer Not long ago, "cancer" wasn't a word used in polite company. Newspaper obituaries referred to death from "a long illness." Actor John Wayne broke the taboo, announced he had lung cancer, and called it the "Big C."
This magazine regularly describes new, high-tech methods of treating cancer. Yet, for one common cancer-colorectal-just being as candid with your doctor as John Wayne was can do wonders. It can even save your life.
The American Cancer Society says everyone should be tested regularly for colorectal cancer, beginning at age 50; many physicians suggest age 40.
Medical assistant Doreth Imbott-Ruiz wishes everyone would take an interest in colorectal health much earlier; she was only 24 when diagnosed with rectal cancer.
"It is kind of embarrassing to talk about, and people I know say 'I'm not going to take the tests or ask about it, because it is embarrassing,'" says Imbott-Ruiz. "But this cancer can happen to anyone at any age. I hope that message gets out there."
Fortunately, her diagnosis was timely, and she has been treated successfully.
Physicians at USC/Norris have an impressive arsenal of anti-cancer weapons at their disposal. Some are described in the article, "A Deadly Silence," which begins on page 6.
For example, new drugs now in clinical trials are showing good results, often in combination with other drugs, radiation or surgery. New minimally invasive surgical techniques can repair major damage from large tumors. Genetics are coming into play, as we learn more about genetic links to cancer-and how to manipulate genes to treat cancer.
Prevention is a focus at USC/Norris. We wonder why for some consuming red meat increases cancer risk, or consuming certain vegetables provides a level of protection. The National Institutes of Health recently awarded USC researchers $10 million to develop a registry of families at high risk of developing colorectal cancer, which will help answer many questions about the causes of colorectal cancer and suggest means of prevention.
But cancer in the final analysis is personal. It's between you and your doctor. Sadly, many find it difficult to be candid with their doctor.
Just keep in mind that what your doctor doesn't know can kill you.
- Sincerely,
- Peter A. Jones, Ph.D.
- Director
- USC/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center
