Post subject: ADVANCED BOWEL CANCER: advice pls! Posted: September 1, 2005 10:20 pmHello. I despertaly need advice! Last week my dad was finally diagnosed with bowel cancer (18cm up)and after a ct scan they know it is in the liver and possibly the lung/s. Around june he was diagnosed as anemic after complaining of fatigue and bowel changes. Saw the surgoen (general with upper gastrointestinal surgery interest) who gave a too brief dukes 4 diagnosis, mentioned lymph nodes, liver and lung but when pushed didn't give details. The surgeon was pesimistic, patronising and not very repsonsive. He has been offered an op to remove blockage in 5 days time but this is for relief and not a cure. THen we must wait up 3-5weks before he can possibly have chemo!?! The whole process has been hindered by a disinterested gp and rushed hospital staff, we're not fully confident we're recieving the best care. WE STILL HAVENT MET WITH AN ONOCOLOGIST.This seems a very long time to wait for diagnosis and treatment. Does anyone have suggestions about investigating specialists or changing a family dr/gp at such a crucial time? Will it delay treatment? Can anyone reccomend specialists in uk (specifically tyne and wear/ newcastle)? Should we consider paying for private treatment? Does anyone have experience of dukes stage 4 treatment , management?What is life expectancy? 1, 2 years?Less? Thank you so much for reading this. Replies gratefully received.
