Study Links Appendectomy to 58% Lower Colorectal Cancer Risk
A study of more than 30,000 patients found appendectomy for acute appendicitis was associated with a 58% lower relative risk of later colorectal cancer than antibiotic treatment alone. Researchers cautioned that the findings do not prove surgery prevents cancer and should not displace antibiotics as an option; further research is needed.
Health · 5 sources · Oct 3, 2026Read itThe journal
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About colorectal cancer
Colorectal cancer, also known as bowel cancer, colon cancer, intestinal cancer, or rectal cancer, is the development of cancer from the colon or rectum, characterized by the uncontrolled growth of colon cells that can invade or spread to other parts of the body. Signs and symptoms may include blood in the stool, a change in bowel movements, weight loss, abdominal pain, and fatigue. Most colorectal cancers are due to lifestyle factors and genetic disorders. Risk factors include diet, obesity, smoking, and lack of physical activity. Dietary factors that increase the risk include red meat, processed meat, and alcohol. Another risk factor is inflammatory bowel disease, which includes Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Some of the inherited genetic disorders that can cause colorectal cancer include familial adenomatous polyposis and hereditary non-polyposis colon cancer; however, these represent less than 5% of cases. It typically starts as a benign tumor, often in the form of a polyp, which over time becomes cancerous.
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