Can an Anal Fistula Heal on Its Own?
Anal fistulas form when an abscess affects the anal area. An anal fistula is a tunnel between the skin of the buttocks and the anal canal. The condition can be painful—but can it heal on its own?
Is 45 The New 50? When Should You Get Screened For Colon Cancer?
The American Cancer Society lowered its recommended colon cancer screening age from 50 to 45 last year. Today, young-onset colorectal cancer survivor and business leader, Scott Wilson, is leading efforts in Colorado to mandate this age reduction and require insurance companies to cover colonoscopy costs beginning at age 45. The facts are that there is an ever-increasing number of cases of colorectal cancer in younger individuals. It’s not known why.
The likelihood of someone born in 1990 developing colorectal cancer has doubled
Wilson, who heads corporate affairs at Molson Coors Brewing Company, was diagnosed with Stage IV metastatic colon cancer at 48. Treatment has included colon and liver surgeries, 40 weeks of aggressive chemotherapy, and ongoing surveillance. He serves on the national board of the Washington, D.C., based Colorectal Cancer Alliance and Never Too Young Advisory Board, and is an integral part of the Blue Hope Bash and Denver Undy RunWalk. In addition, Scott authored the photo book Through the Window—A Photographic Tale of Cancer Recovery (https://www.ccalliance.org/shop/books/through-the-window) that depicts his journey to recovery over cancer. All proceeds are donated to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance.
Scott recently presented before state legislators to garner support for a 2020 bill to reduce Colorado’s covered average risk screening age for colorectal cancer to 45, in line with American Cancer Society guidelines. The bill already has two primary sponsors. With his permission, we are pleased to share his Colorado Cancer Coalition presentation with you.
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I’ve Been Diagnosed with Anal Warts; Now What?
Anal and genital warts result from HPV infection. Any sexual or skin-to-skin contact in the area around the anus could transmit an HPV strain that causes warts. Treatment depends on location and severity and typically involves topical solutions or surgery.
Chronic Anal Itching: When Should I Consult an Expert?
Anal itching can be embarrassing to talk about. It might not be a big deal if the problem is sporadic, but when it becomes chronic, you’ll want to find a solution, which may mean consulting an expert.
How Recurrent Anal Abscesses Increase Your Risk of Developing a Fistula
Glands inside the anus can sometimes become blocked, creating a painful anal abscess. About 50% of people with an anal abscess will go on to develop an anal fistula. Here’s what you need to know about each condition.
Can Pilonidal Disease Return After Surgery?
Pilonidal disease forms around the tailbone. Treatment often includes drainage or excision surgery. Will that take care of the problem? Maybe. Read on to learn about an approach with a high rate of preventing recurrence.
When Rectal Bleeding Requires Medical Attention
It’s never a good feeling when you discover blood after a bowel movement. It’s a problem that requires investigation, since rectal bleeding has both benign and serious causes.