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Colon Cancer/recurring colon cancer

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Question
I had colon cancer in April of 2000, had surgery to remove part of my colon. I had my 5 yr. checkup in April of 2005. Lately I have noticed some bleeding in my bowel movements. I should mention that since my surgery my bowel movements have been soft or diareia. How often does this cancer come back?

Answer
A general rule of thumb with regards to colon cancer - not always correct - is that "if the patient has survived 5 years the patient is cured". BUT a previous colon cancer patient - even if cured - does indeed have a higher risk than normal of developing a NEW colon cancer. So whatever the reason for the blood in your stools turns out to be you MUST undergo a new check up including a colonoscopy ASAP! Good luck!

Colon Cancer

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Claes-Gustaf Nordquist, M.D.

Expertise

I`m a doctor of medicine and a specialist in radiation therapy and medical oncology. I have long experience with regards to this cancer.

Experience

I'm a Doctor of Medicine and specialist in Medical Oncology and Radiation Therapy educated & trained in Sweden. Now retired. Background in Radiation Therapy, Medical Oncology, Radiation Protection, Nuclear Medicine, Diagnostic Radiology, Gynecological Oncology, Clinical Pathology, Clinical Cytology,Hematology and Internal Medicine. M.D. from the faculty of medicine, Royal Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden. Have also been an exchange student at the Hebrew University, Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem Israel. Former medical consultant, Swedish National Board of Radiation Protection. Former Police Surgeon and Medical Examiner, Stockholm Police Department. Former Chief Medical Officer, The Royal Guards, The Royal Horse Guards and the Royal Household Brigade, Royal Swedish Army Medical Corps. You can also reach me on: http://www.lifestylerescue.com/expert/health-fitness-advice/dr-claes-gustaf/128 I have no restrictions on the number of questions there.

I also answer questions in these categories: Oncology (General Cancer), General History, Military History, Brain Tumors, Breast Cancer.

Education/Credentials
I'm a medical doctor and a specialist in medical oncology & radiation therapy.

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