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Just the worst news ever

Posted , 3 users are following.

sam18386
sam18386

Hi people on here.  MY family have just had devastating news or it could be.  My uncle could have the same cancer (of the bowel) that my Granddad died of.  Can hereditary bowel cancer pass down the family and is IBS the precursor to bowel cancer?  I am really worried as I don't need this on top of everything else.  Would my doctor know?  Would you even bother to ask.  Please help sick with worry, thanks. 

0 likes, 2 replies

2 Replies

  • pippa58442
    pippa58442 sam18386

    Posted

    IBS does not lead to bowel cancer.  However, a family history of any disease including cancer does mean you are more predisposed to that condition.  But, it doesn't mean that you will definitely pick up that particular condition.  Your doctor will be able to answer any medical question because that is their job.

    The best thing to do is not to worry about it; it may never happen.  Worry doesn't change the outcome of life events.  Worry will make your IBS significantly worse and you will reduce your ability to cope with daily living.  Concentrate on what is going well  for you.  Positive thinking is always the best way forward.

  • leeniepie
    leeniepie sam18386

    Posted

    As pippa has said, bowel cancer in your family does put you more at risk of developing it but IBS is not linked to cancer.

    The best thing to do is just get on with things as worrying won't get you anywhere. Once you reach 50 you can enter the bowel cancer screening program (If you are in the uk).

    Also you say your uncle could have cancer. If he hasn't been diagnosed yet then you're really getting in a tiz foe no reason.

    Even if he is diagnosed treatments are very effective now.

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