What you say is likely correct about iron deficiency, but how about when you factor in the fact I have a blood [technically lymphoid] cancer, and my bone marrow isn’t functioning normally. It [the bone marrow] just may need a little extra help in the form of an iron and/or folic acid supplement.

And yes, people with one type of cancer are prone to others [secondary cancers], but that is usually the result of having had chemotherapy, which is the norm, almost immediately, after being diagnosed.

I am scheduled for a BMB on the 12th of May, so I’ll ask you my doctor about scheduling a colonoscopy. It’s been almost 8 years since my last one, so I am probably due.

Thanks,

The number one cause of iron deficiency anemia in men (women menstruate so it’s not that unusual) is occult GI bleeding, not inadequate intake.

If your anemia is indeed from iron deficiency (you should have a serum ferritin and/or Fe/Tibc to confirm this) you need a colonoscopy and EGD.

I’m surprised your oncologist didn’t suggest this.

People with one type of cancer tend to be prone to others.

Not trying to scare you, but you should bring this up with your oncologist.

Alan

And my reason for not jumping head first into treatment, has nothing to do with my skepticism with the US health care system. Treatment options are basically the same any where in the world, and there hasn’t been much advancement in cancer treatment over the last several decades. And in the US you are more likely to have access to what ever advancements there are.

My reasons for wanting to delay conventional treatment as long as possible, has more to do with the statement “sometimes the cure can be worse than the disease.” I’ve never really considered the infusion of deadly chemicals into the body as being medicine.

One of the realities for all of us in the post-60 age range is that our encounters with most care givers are with the younger generation. That’s not a bad thing because they are most likely to be read and informed about the latest in medicine for their specialty. And your hesitation to jump head-first into any treatment plan is understandable in light of a certain skepticism about the medical establishment. Yet, when you see improvements in your health and well-being (including longevity with the diagnosis), you must have confidence in those with whom you have placed your trust. Keep up the fight!