The Nurse’s Station: A History of Recurring Cancer

by | Nov 1, 2022 | Advice, Health

 

Welcome to our monthly series of Q&A on health issues that will help you make better-informed decisions for your and your family’s good health. 

Our health and wellness series,“The Nurse’s Station” column, is intended for educational purposes only. 

Reader Question: 

“An older family member has had breast cancer twice, had major surgery twice and has been on chemotherapy both times. It has been several years since the last devastating news and now she had emergency surgery for colon cancer. How common is this kind of thing? Can breast cancer cause bowel cancer? Does having cancer one time increase your odds of having it again, even in another place? ” – A.P.

Answer:

Dear A.P., First, our prayers are with your family. Facing cancer is difficult the first time, let alone the third. Refuah Sheleima!

As to your main concern, “Can breast cancer cause bowel cancer?” While it is more common to see this the other way around, (bowel cancer causing breast cancer), unfortunately, yes, it can happen. 

Almost all types of cancer have the potential to spread anywhere in the body via the bloodstream or lymphatic system. However it is uncommon for breast cancers to migrate to the digestive system. If it does occur, it is more likely to attach to the peritoneum (outside lining of the intestine). Most cancers of this type will most often affect the small intestine rather than the  large intestine, which includes the colon. 

The last part of your question was “Does having cancer one time increase your odds of having it again, even in another place?” Short answer – unfortunately, yes. The risk of developing a second, unrelated cancer after treatment is small but still exists. There are many factors involved, including genetics.

Family support is a very important component of the healing process. As the emotions may run the course of every conceivable form, love, understanding and patience is the best medicine. I’m sure you are already giving this and that it is well appreciated, especially as you honor her end-of-life wishes. Stay strong.

 

    We welcome the submissions of your health and wellness related questions for consideration, to be researched and answered on this page in next month’s edition of Unorthoboxed Magazine. Your privacy will be protected. Send your questions to: miryam@unorthoboxed.com

    DISCLAIMER:

    “Unorthoboxed Magazine in general and this article series in particular, does not provide nor intend  to give any medical advice. It is intended for informational purposes only. The author is a retired Registered Nurse, not currently in practice. The information offered is for educational purposes. It is not intended to take the place of your doctor’s recommendations. You are strongly urged to seek the advice of a trusted primary care physician or specialist. If your situation is urgent or critical, please seek the appropriate  professional help immediately.”

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