Colon Cancer: Fruit Used in Chinese Medicine Shows Promise as Treatment

According to the American Cancer SocietyTrusted Source, colorectal cancer is the second-most common cause of cancer among males and females combined. Colon cancer is the third leading cause of death among males and the fourth among females. The ACS estimates that 53,010 Americans will die of colorectal cancers this year.

Colon cancer or colorectal cancer are used interchangeably since rectal cancer typically begins with the formation of polyps in the colon or the rectum.

Deaths from colorectal cancer are declining somewhat due to more prevalent screening, which the ACS recommends beginning at age 45Trusted Source for people with an average risk of the disease.

As with other types of cancer, early detection of colon cancer is key for successful treatment.

A new study finds that a polyphenol found in a plant used in Chinese medicine known as schisandra or “magnolia berry” could help treat colon cancer, particularly in the disease’s later stages.

The findings were recently published in ACS Pharmacology & Translational Science.