I had a visit with my gastroenterologist this week to prep for the next round of scopes (esophageal and colon). Mind you, I've been his patient for +/-15 years. He did my colon resection in 2003, and has since pulled dozens of polyps out each time I go in. This time, he mentioned having a genetic test performed to look for colon and other cancers. He said that based on the results, I may (get this) ELECT to have another surgery to remove what little I have left in order to reduce the risk of those other cancers. I don't think I heard much after that. My grandmother, aunt and an uncle (paternal) all had colon cancer, so I stay on top of it. I figure there's no need for a test, right? I did some searching and found out why. Apparently there are several syndromes which would put me in an increased risk pool for other cancers. Not that we need more to worry about, but my wife thinks I should have it done. She said that if it would reduce the likelihood, it was a good idea. Has anyone else had this experience? If so, I'd really appreciate your comments (what you chose, why, lifestyle since, etc.). The rational part of me really wants to know, but the guy who lived through the first surgery, recovery and subsequent complications cringed at the idea of being cut open again.
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justrluk
Good morning, crew...
I had a visit with my gastroenterologist this week to prep for the next round of scopes (esophageal and colon). Mind you, I've been his patient for +/-15 years. He did my colon resection in 2003, and has since pulled dozens of polyps out each time I go in. This time, he mentioned having a genetic test performed to look for colon and other cancers. He said that based on the results, I may (get this) ELECT to have another surgery to remove what little I have left in order to reduce the risk of those other cancers. I don't think I heard much after that. My grandmother, aunt and an uncle (paternal) all had colon cancer, so I stay on top of it. I figure there's no need for a test, right? I did some searching and found out why. Apparently there are several syndromes which would put me in an increased risk pool for other cancers. Not that we need more to worry about, but my wife thinks I should have it done. She said that if it would reduce the likelihood, it was a good idea. Has anyone else had this experience? If so, I'd really appreciate your comments (what you chose, why, lifestyle since, etc.). The rational part of me really wants to know, but the guy who lived through the first surgery, recovery and subsequent complications cringed at the idea of being cut open again.
Thanks to all!
Limbo is status quo for the VARO.
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