2 Truths, 1 Lie and the Truth about the Gut

Constipation is one of the most common issues impacting (pun intended!) both adults and children. It often can be surrounded by bad advice, urban legends and "quick fixes" that can do more harm than good.

Can you determine which is the lie?

1. Colon Cancer Screening Clinical guidelines recommend individuals of average risk begin routine colon cancer screening at age 50, shifting the previous benchmark of 55 to catch precancerous polyps and early-stage disease sooner.

   
   

2. The Fecal Impaction Spiral Chronic delay of bowel movements can cause the colon to continuously absorb moisture from trapped waste. Over time, the stool becomes dry, hardened, and immovable—a clinical condition known as fecal impaction.

   
   

3.  The Coffee Hypothesis Coffee can stimulate contractions in the colon. Caffeinated coffee is roughly 60% more effective at triggering this urge than plain water. Decaffeinated coffee stimulates more colon activity than water.

   
   

Statement 1 is the LIE! ❌

Most major US guidelines now set the average-risk age to 45 for colon cancer screening. The rationale in earlier screening (previously it was age 50) is to catch precancerous polyps and early-stage cancer sooner, largely in response to rising early-onset colorectal cancer.

Remember to prioritize routine cancer screenings!