Understanding the link between weight loss surgery and risk of colorectal cancer in Brooklyn NY

Colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer, is an incredibly common form of cancer that is found in both men and women. Colon cancer is the third and fourth most common cancer in men and women respectively but is also very treatable when detected on time. Dr. Alexander Shapsis at Atlantic Gastroenterology in Brooklyn, NY encourages everybody to come in to be examined immediately if any of the common signs are detected. Colon cancer chances are elevated in people who are obese. There has been a link found between bariatric surgery and a reduced risk in people developing colorectal cancer.

Weight-Loss Surgery and Reduced Risk of Colon Cancer

It has been known for a long time that people who fall under the obese weight classification are at higher risk for colon cancer. With the advancement in medical technology and success found in bariatric weight loss surgery, there have been studies performed which show that this weight loss surgery can bring colon cancer risk back down to a normal level.

Those who are considered obese have been found to be at a 34 percent higher risk for colon cancer than those who maintain a healthy weight. With bariatric surgery and it’s ability to quickly bring a person’s weight back down to a normal level, there are obvious benefits when talking about this colon cancer risk. Bariatric surgery is effectively bringing these obese patients back down to a normal weight, in effect reducing the risk of cancer.

This is especially true for patients who are aged 50 to 75 as they are at a higher risk for colon cancer just due to their age. Anybody within this range, regardless of their weight, should be getting regular screenings to check for colorectal cancer.

Regular Screenings and Understanding the Symptoms

Even if you are in the normal weight range or have undergone surgery to put yourself in this range, it is still incredibly important to understand the symptoms of colorectal cancer and to come in for regular screenings. Symptoms of colorectal cancer can include:

• Changes in Bowel Habits
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Red/Dark Blood in Stool
• Unexplained Weight Loss
• Fatigue
• Shortness of Breath

If you need a screening or believe you may be experiencing symptoms of colorectal (colon) cancer, please call Atlantic Gastroenterology at 718 521-2840 for an appointment. Dr. Shapsis and his team are here for you.