Yes, it is possible to survive bowel cancer. With early diagnosis and treatment, many people live long and healthy lives after being diagnosed with bowel cancer.
Bowel cancer is the third most common cancer in the world, and if detected and treated early enough, the chances of survival can be very good. Treatment for bowel cancer usually involves surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and/or targeted therapy. The type of treatment will depend on the stage and type of cancer, as well as the individual patient's overall health.
Surgery is usually the first line of treatment for bowel cancer and can be used to remove the tumor and nearby lymph nodes. Depending on the stage and type of cancer, surgery may be able to remove the entire tumor or just part of it. After surgery, chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy may be recommended to reduce the risk of the cancer returning.
Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are two types of systemic treatment. Systemic treatment refers to treatments that affect the whole body, not just the tumor. Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells, while radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells. Both treatments may cause some side effects, such as nausea, fatigue, and hair loss.
Targeted therapy is a newer type of treatment that uses drugs to target specific molecules in cancer cells. This type of treatment can be very effective in treating some types of bowel cancer and can help reduce the risk of the cancer coming back.
In addition to receiving treatment, there are lifestyle changes that people with bowel cancer can make to help improve their chances of survival. Eating a healthy, balanced diet and getting regular exercise can help reduce the risk of the cancer coming back. It is also important for people with bowel cancer to get regular check-ups and follow-up care from their doctors.
Overall, with early diagnosis and proper treatment, it is possible to survive bowel cancer. With the help of medical professionals, lifestyle changes, and regular check-ups, many people are able to live long and healthy lives after being diagnosed with bowel cancer.