Hi guys! I am 26 years old, and I got diagnosed of rectal cancer in 2 months ago. It was said to be 8cm in size, but localised. I have had two doses of the chemotherapy treatment already, and still have others including radiotherapy scheduled. I would like to know if there are things to eat, and diet changes to be made to support the defeat of the disease.
Thank you for your help!!
Hi, what symptoms did you have before was diagnosed?
Hi I'm really sorry about your diagnosis hope you get better. Sorry may I ask what were your symptoms before finding out?
Blood in stool for a short while... then it stopped, and it was just mucus, with slim stool. After a while, I suddenly discovered my bowel movement was not usual. I visited doctors for a while, but no one really thought it neccesseary to do a colonoscopy after 3 months of visits. I was loosing weight, fatigued, having a lot of bloating, and belching, then I couldnt use the toilet properly. Eventually, I was able to make them do the colonoscopy.
Hello Olaolu ,
Thank you for posting and I'm sorry to read about your diagnosis. I hope that you are tolerating the treatment well.
The GI Cancers Alliance is a member of the GCCA and has put together this resource that you may find useful: gicancersalliance.org/resou...
Has your oncologist recommended a nutritionist? Many patients find that seeing a nutritionist that specializes in the field of cancer leads to having a better experience in knowing what to eat or even developing a plan to determine what your body can handle, as well as ensuring that you are getting proper nutrition.
We know that diet and exercise play a role in staying healthy during treatment, and following treatment as well.
If you send me a private message and let me know where in the world you are located, I'll provide you with the names of some organizations that are in your area. Although with so many great resources online (as well as COVID), it may not be as important to be connected with local organizations.
There's also an initiative called #NeverTooYoung - if you search the hashtag on social media you should see it right away. In the US, the Colorectal Cancer Alliance is leading efforts to raise awareness about early age onset colorectal cancer. There are a number of organizations worldwide that also are a part of the NeverTooYoung initiative, or have a separate program specifically around early-age onset of colorectal cancer.
Are you connected with any other organizations or groups to connect with fellow survivors actively in treatment?
Has your medical team discussed biomarker testing with you? Check out our educational campaign at knowyourbiomarker.org to learn about what biomarker testing is, and how it can help predict which treatments you may respond to best, as well as which to avoid. Specific biomarkers have approved therapies as well as many clinical trials existing around the world targeting specific biomarkers.
We're here for you and hope that you are tolerating treatment and that it is successful in eradicating the cancer.
~Nicole, GCCA Staff Member & Colon Cancer Connected Site Administrator.
Just a reminder - this group is here to offer support, share experiences, and offer our thoughts - but this is not medical advice, and you should always consult your medical professional(s). Additionally, for all emergencies, seek urgent medical care, never delay.
I've heard a strict plant based diet really helps. But I'm sure other people can chime in and give you more ideas. Also, what were your symptoms upon diagnosis?
Hi Olaolu
I have just come across your post . I am very sorry to learn of your diagnosis . I too had cancer of the rectum . It took me a long time to get doctors to listen to me but after two years of trying to convince them I was finally diagnosed at the age of 32. I am happy to say that this was 21 years ago .
With regards to nutrition there will be lots more support on offer to you than when I was diagnosed . I ate healthy and exercised . My diet changed as I had a colostomy and still have .
I just want to wish you so much luck with your treatment. Keep strong xx
Thank you for the kind words... I need to begin doing some exercises then.
You are welcome . Only do exercise that you’ve had the okay medically to do . I know what it’s like being diagnosed with cancer so young and my daughter does too . She was only 28 with cervical cancer. Try not to stress too much about diet / exercise at the moment . Get through your treatment first . Here if you want any support through this . X
chronic rectal bleeding, colonoscopy normal
Rectal bleeding for several months & terrified 
Heavy rectal bleeding / with blood clots.
Rectal Bleeding Very Concerned
