Cancer in CF patients
Hello to all my fellow CFers out there! I hope this finds you all doing great! I have a general question borne out of a possible scare of my own: A positive Cologuard test. The test was done almost a year ago and I have yet to be able to get a colonoscopy due to other more pressing issues trying to kill me at once (yes, it has been that kind of horrible year). I would add that I am also having some pretty lousy GI symptoms like horrible cramping, gas, bloating, heartburn and unintended weight loss. I am wondering if anyone out there has any advice for me and any stories to share of surviving cancer with CF? I am 56 years old and "back in my day", cancer was just a plain death sentence with CF because chemo lowered the immune system too much. Anyone out there than can share hope? Kathy
I am so sorry that you've received a positive test on your Colorgard screening. The overall risk of getting colorectal cancer is increased by 5 to 10 times in those with CF compared to the general population. So I'm very glad your doctor recommended screening. There are treatment options for colorectal cancer, especially if caught in the early stages. This is why it’s important to undergo regular screening for colorectal cancer, especially if you are at an increased risk. You may be interested in this article about CF and colorectal cancer. Please schedule your follow-up colonoscopy as soon as you can. Warmly, Kathy (team member)
