Colon Cancer Alliance

Colon Cancer and the Polyps Connection

By Stephen Fisher
ISBN: 1555610803 $16.95

Reviewed by Gail Henson

Colon Cancer & the Polyps Connection by Stephen Fisher provides an overview of the author's personal diagnosis of colon cancer and his experience in the Polyp Prevention Trial (PPT). The book was originally published in 1995 before the recent heightened awareness of colon cancer. The author allows the reader to listen in as he processes the diagnosis of his colorectal cancer and shares how he copes with his diagnosis.

Fisher presents information on polyps and colon cancer, symptoms, early detection, screening methods, diagnosis, treatment, finding the right doctor and hospital, prevention through diet and nutrition, and patient questions. The format is easy to understand and he is careful to explain the various medical terms involved.

The book includes terms, procedures, treatments, medical facts, and data from The American Cancer Society and National Cancer Institute. Even though this information is approximately ten years old and treatment options and procedures have changed, the definitions and information on treatment are still relevant today. A helpful resource is the list of questions you may want to ask your physician. The listing of cancer hospitals will allow the patient or caregiver the opportunity to research the best treatment for their cancer.

Fisher provides a solid overview of how the colon works. The information is laid out in an easy-to-follow manner so that patients can begin to understand the inner workings of their bodies. The information on screening methods is beneficial as he details the sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy and barium enema. The sections on treatment options and eating well during chemotherapy will benefit the patient and caregiver.

I found the section on diet and nutrition most helpful. Fisher provides the information he received in the PPT on how to cut fat and add fiber to your diet. He wrote the book during the trial and the focus in the colon cancer community at the time was on the importance of diet as a way to prevent polyps and colon cancer. The study results have been released since the book was published, and the PPT study concluded that diet alone is not a factor in prevention of colon cancer. However, the information is still helpful as you implement a healthy diet. The lists of various foods and their respective fat and fiber content will assist you in planning for a low-fat, high-fiber diet.

The list of resources for colorectal patients is beneficial; however, it is important to note that many additional resources have become available since the publication of the book.

Overall, the book Colon Cancer & The Polyps Connection by Stephen Fisher is a helpful resource for colorectal cancer patients and their families.

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