Introduction to Colon Cancer
Jenn Henry is now cancer free, but her life changed forever in September 2023, when she was diagnosed with stage four colorectal cancer.
"I had lost 19 pounds in five months without trying, and that was alarming," said Henry, a realtor from Geneva.
Henry ignored several warning signs leading up to the diagnosis, including rapid weight loss, stomach pain and digestive issues.
Warning Signs and Symptoms
"I just never had time to take care of myself," she said.
"I just thought it was stress," Henry said, when she started to get stomach aches and loss of appetite.
At the urging of her husband, Henry got checked out and was shocked to learn of her advanced cancer diagnosis. Despite the unnerving prognosis, she was determined to stay positive.
"I knew it was not the end of my story. I knew it was the beginning of my journey," said Henry.
Understanding Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer is the most common GI cancer treated at Northwestern Medicine. Although it typically affects older adults, it can happen at any age.
"Oftentimes, patients with advanced disease will notice weight loss, unexplained weight loss. Certainly crampy abdominal pains or GI symptoms, bloody stool or unexplained anemia," said Dr. John Abad, the director of surgical oncology at Northwestern Medicine.
Risk Factors and Prevention
Dr. Abad, who treated Henry, says genetics play a role, but there are lifestyle changes people should consider.
"Patients who have more of a sedentary lifestyle, heavy drinkers, folks who eat certain things like red meats or processed foods, we see higher instances of colorectal cancer in those populations."
Current guidelines suggest patients should get their first colonoscopy at age 45. Henry, who was diagnosed at 54, did not.
Treatment and Recovery
Henry was deemed cancer free in October 2024, after nearly a year of treatment.
Due to a deficiency in a certain type of cells, Henry was a candidate for immunotherapy infusion instead of chemo.
"She had something called MSI-high, which means she had a deficiency in mismatched repair genes that made her cancer uniquely susceptible to immunotherapy," said Dr. Arlene D’Souza, a medical oncologist who treated Henry.
"Immunotherapy uses your body’s immune system to attack and kill cancer cells. The toxicity are actually much better with immunotherapy," said Dr. D’Souza.
"About 6% of metastatic colon cancer patients have MSI-high, but their outcomes and response to immunotherapy is exceptional."
Sharing Her Story
After multiple surgeries, radiation and immunotherapy, Henry is sharing her story as a warning to others. A stage four diagnosis doesn’t have to be a death sentence.
"You have listen to your body and take advantage of the resources in medical world. Colonoscopies are there for a reason," said Henry.
"Don’t be afraid of the prep work. Don’t be afraid it’s going to be this horrible experience. Trust me, cancer is way worse than prepping for a colonoscopy."
Conclusion
Henry’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of listening to our bodies and taking preventive measures against colon cancer. By sharing her experience, she hopes to encourage others to prioritize their health and not ignore warning signs.
FAQs
Q: What are the common symptoms of colorectal cancer?
A: Common symptoms include weight loss, stomach pain, digestive issues, bloody stool, and unexplained anemia.
Q: What is the recommended age for a first colonoscopy?
A: Current guidelines suggest patients should get their first colonoscopy at age 45.
Q: What is immunotherapy and how does it work?
A: Immunotherapy uses the body’s immune system to attack and kill cancer cells, and it has been shown to be effective in treating certain types of colorectal cancer.
Q: How can I reduce my risk of developing colorectal cancer?
A: Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and eating a balanced diet can help reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer.
