Colon and Rectal Surgery of New York

Colon and Rectal Surgery of New York For the past 20 years, Dr. Lynn M.

O’Connor has made it her mission to provide patients with the foremost treatment, technology, and information related to preventive public health issues, and colon and rectal health.

02/17/2026

I recently had the opportunity to speak with Good Morning America about Catherine O’Hara’s passing, and I want to share something crucial that isn’t being widely discussed.

Catherine didn’t die from re**al cancer itself. She died from a pulmonary embolism, a blood clot that traveled to her lungs. ⚠️

This is a danger that deserves far more attention:
‼️Colore**al cancer patients are at significantly higher risk for life-threatening blood clots, especially in the critical 3-6 month window after diagnosis and during chemotherapy.

It’s a complication that can strike suddenly.

It’s often unexpected. And it can be fatal.

But here’s what gives me hope as a physician:
🩺Colore**al cancer itself is one of the most preventable cancers we face.

Screening works. Early detection changes everything.

And when patients and their care teams are aware of clot risks, we can take proactive steps to prevent them.

Know these warning signs:
🚨Changes in bowel habits
🚨Re**al bleeding or blood in stool
🚨Persistent abdominal pain or cramping
🚨Unexplained weight loss
🚨Ongoing fatigue

Don’t wait. Don’t dismiss symptoms. Don’t assume you’re “too young” or “too healthy.”

Catherine’s legacy is laughter, warmth, and unforgettable performances.

Let’s honor her by having the conversations that matter—about screening, about symptoms, about the complications we can prevent.

Link to the full story in the comments.

**alCancerAwareness

02/13/2026

Just stepped out of a long day in the OR, but I needed to address this news immediately.
James Van Der Beek's story is too important not to talk about right now.

James noticed something was off—a change in bowel habits. He was fit, healthy, doing cold plunges. He blamed his coffee.

It was stage 3 colon cancer.
🚨 COLON CANCER IS NOW THE #1 CANCER KILLER IN PEOPLE UNDER 50

James's story reveals a deadly pattern:
Young patients see 2-3 doctors before diagnosis
Symptoms get dismissed or explained away
By the time they're diagnosed, it's often advanced

HE DIDN'T KNOW:
⚠️ Screening age dropped from 50 to 45
⚠️ Changes in bowel habits are a red flag
⚠️ Being "young and healthy" doesn't make you immune

Stage 3 means the cancer spread beyond the colon wall. It means chemotherapy. It means the fight just got exponentially harder.

Early detection literally saves lives. But you have to know what to look for.

DEMAND a colonoscopy if you notice:
👉 Changes in bowel habits
👉 Re**al bleeding
👉 Persistent abdominal pain
👉 Unexplained weight loss
👉 Ongoing fatigue

Don't let a doctor dismiss you because of your age. Don't dismiss yourself.

James's tragedy can be your wake-up call.

Yesterday, we lost actor James Van Der Beek at just 48 years old to colore**al cancer. This loss underscores a devastati...
02/12/2026

Yesterday, we lost actor James Van Der Beek at just 48 years old to colore**al cancer.

This loss underscores a devastating reality that demands our immediate attention: Colore**al cancer is now the #1 cause of cancer-related deaths in Americans under 50. 🚨

Let me repeat that. The leading cause of cancer death for people under 50.

James was diagnosed with Stage 3 disease in 2023—in his mid-40s, in peak cardiovascular health, living an active lifestyle.

He had no idea.

His only clue was subtle changes in bowel movements that he initially dismissed as related to coffee consumption.

While death rates for other major cancers have declined, colore**al cancer deaths in young adults have climbed by 1% annually since 2005, making it the ONLY major cancer with a mortality rate increasing in this age group. 📈

Why is this happening?

Three out of four young patients are diagnosed at advanced stages.

When caught early, the five-year survival rate is 89%.

At advanced stages? It drops to 16%. ⏰

The tragedy is that colore**al cancer is highly preventable and curable when caught early.

But we’re missing the window because young people (and too often their doctors) dismiss the symptoms as “too young for cancer.”

If you take away anything from this devastating loss: ⬇️
✅ Get screened starting at age 45—even if you feel perfectly healthy
✅ Don’t wait for symptoms to become obvious
✅ Pay attention to ANY changes in bowel habits, no matter how minor
✅ If you have a family history, start screening earlier—at age 40 or 10 years before a family member’s diagnosis

James spent his final months advocating for awareness, urging people to get tested.

Let’s honor his memory by listening.

**alCancer

HOPE. PROGRESS. SURVIVAL.We've reached a watershed moment in cancer care: Cancer survival rates have hit an all-time hig...
02/11/2026

HOPE. PROGRESS. SURVIVAL.

We've reached a watershed moment in cancer care: Cancer survival rates have hit an all-time high of 70%—meaning 7 in 10 patients diagnosed with cancer today will be alive five years from now.

This represents remarkable progress from just 50% in the mid-1970s.

For my colon and re**al cancer patients, this milestone carries special meaning.

Colore**al cancer survival stands at approximately 65%, with early-stage, localized disease achieving survival rates over 91%.

When we catch it early, we can cure it.

This progress is the result of decades of scientific investment, better detection methods, and improved surgical techniques.

As a surgeon, I've witnessed firsthand how minimally invasive approaches, precision medicine, and targeted therapies are transforming outcomes for our patients.

But here's what matters most: Early detection saves lives.

Survival is dramatically higher when colore**al cancer is found before it spreads. That colonoscopy you've been putting off? It could be the difference between a 91% survival rate and a much harder fight.

If you're 45 or older, or have a family history, screening isn't optional—it's essential.

Every day in my practice, I see what early detection makes possible: complete cures, preserved quality of life, and futures restored.

This 70% survival milestone isn't just a statistic.

It's thousands of patients who get to see their children graduate, celebrate anniversaries, and live full lives. It's proof that our investment in cancer research and screening works.

Don't wait. Schedule your screening. Your life may depend on it.

**alCancer

🚨 The numbers don’t lie: Heavy lifetime alcohol use increases colore**al cancer risk by up to 91%.As I told ABC News: “T...
02/03/2026

🚨 The numbers don’t lie: Heavy lifetime alcohol use increases colore**al cancer risk by up to 91%.

As I told ABC News: “The longer someone drinks, the longer their colon and re**um are exposed to damage and impaired repair—both major mechanisms of cancer.” 🍸

Here’s what matters: This is a PREVENTABLE cancer. We have the tools to catch it early. Yet fewer than 70% of eligible people get screened.

If you drink heavily—or have in the past—don’t wait for symptoms.

Screening saves lives. Period.

Everyone 45+ should be screened.

If you have a history of heavy drinking and notice bleeding or changes in bowel habits, get evaluated NOW—even in your 30s.

These are modifiable risks. Your choices matter. Your body CAN respond when you reduce those risks.

Read the full study and article at the link 🔗 in the comments.

**alCancer

02/02/2026

🚨 We need to talk about a crisis that's been unfolding in plain sight.

I just finished up a long day in the OR helping colon cancer patients. It's the reality of what I am facing in my schedule as colon cancer rates soar in young people.

Despite being tired from a long day, I wanted to take the time to address a startling statistic that just came out about this disease.

Colore**al cancer is now the #1 cause of cancer death in those under 50 in the United States. Read that again. (🔗 Link to the study in the comments.)

This isn't about genetics or bad luck. Young, healthy individuals with no family history are being diagnosed at Stage 3 or 4 because they—and sometimes their doctors—didn't think it could happen to them.

The symptoms people ignore? Persistent changes in bowel habits. Re**al bleeding dismissed as hemorrhoids. Unexplained fatigue or weight loss. Abdominal pain that won't quit. ⚠️

Here's what I need you to know:
If you're experiencing symptoms, advocate for yourself. Demand the colonoscopy. Get the referral. Your age does not make you immune.

If you're a healthcare provider, please listen when young patients report these symptoms. Early detection saves lives, and we cannot afford to miss these cases. 🩺

The screening age was lowered to 45 for a reason, but we're still losing too many young people who never made it to that first screening.

This is my life's work, and I'm asking you to share this message. Someone in your network needs to see it.

**alCancer

‼️Here are some warning signs you should never ignore.As a colore**al surgeon, I see too many patients who dismissed sym...
01/29/2026

‼️Here are some warning signs you should never ignore.

As a colore**al surgeon, I see too many patients who dismissed symptoms for months or even years before seeking help.

Early detection saves lives, and knowing what to watch for can make all the difference.

Here are the warning signs of colon cancer that should prompt you to call your doctor immediately:
→ Changes in bowel habits – Persistent diarrhea, constipation, or a feeling that your bowel doesn’t empty completely, lasting more than a few weeks
→ Re**al bleeding or blood in your stool – Even small amounts matter. Don’t assume it’s “just hemorrhoids” without getting checked
→ Persistent abdominal discomfort – Cramps, gas, pain, or a feeling of fullness that doesn’t go away
→ Unexplained weight loss – Losing weight without trying is always a red flag
→ Weakness and fatigue – Feeling constantly tired or weak, especially with other symptoms
→ Narrow stools – Pencil-thin stools that persist over time
→ A feeling that you need to have a bowel movement that doesn’t go away, even after you’ve gone

🥼Here’s the truth: Many of these symptoms can be caused by other, less serious conditions. But that’s exactly why you need to get them checked. I’d rather see you for something minor than catch cancer at an advanced stage.

🚩And remember: Colon cancer rates are rising in people under 50. You’re NOT too young to be concerned.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait. Don’t google. Don’t self-diagnose. Make an appointment.

Your gut is literally trying to tell you something. Listen to it.

Experiencing any of these symptoms or concerned about your risk?

📩Contact my office today. Early evaluation could save your life. I’m here to provide expert guidance on screening, diagnosis, and treatment options tailored to your individual needs.

**alHealth

When a patient tells me their experience was “much better than I ever could have anticipated,” I know my team and I are ...
01/26/2026

When a patient tells me their experience was “much better than I ever could have anticipated,” I know my team and I are doing exactly what we set out to do.

“Dr. O’Connor is extremely kind, caring, relatable and explains everything so well. She made the whole process of getting a routine colonoscopy much better than I ever could have anticipated.”

Laurie, thank you for trusting me with your care and for these incredibly kind words. 💜

✨Here’s what drives everything we do: Preventive care should never feel clinical or cold.

When you walk into our practice, you’re not just a procedure on the schedule—you’re a person who deserves to feel informed, comfortable, and genuinely cared for.

From our front desk team to the anesthesiologists we work with, everyone is committed to creating an experience that eases anxiety rather than adding to it.

Your colonoscopy is one of the most important health decisions you’ll make, and you deserve exceptional care at every single touchpoint.

To all the physicians who continue to refer their patients to our practice: Thank you for your trust. We don’t take it lightly.

If you’ve been hesitating about scheduling your screening, let Laurie’s experience remind you it doesn’t have to be the ordeal you’re imagining.

Early detection saves lives, and we’re here to make that journey as smooth as possible.

**alHealth

🩸 GAME-CHANGER IN COLON CANCER TREATMENT 🩸A breakthrough blood test is transforming how we personalize treatment for sta...
01/22/2026

🩸 GAME-CHANGER IN COLON CANCER TREATMENT 🩸

A breakthrough blood test is transforming how we personalize treatment for stage III colon cancer patients after surgery.

New research published in JAMA Oncology reveals that measuring circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) can identify which patients will benefit from adding celecoxib (an NSAID) to their chemotherapy regimen.

The results are striking:
✓ For high-risk ctDNA-positive patients, adding celecoxib nearly DOUBLED disease-free survival over 3 years (41% vs 22.6%)
✓ Five-year overall survival jumped from 39.9% to 61.6% in these patients
✓ Patients testing negative can avoid unnecessary medication

This is precision medicine in action—one simple blood test helping us determine who needs additional therapy and who doesn’t.
With up to 40% of Stage III colon cancer patients experiencing recurrence even after surgery and chemotherapy, this biomarker-driven approach represents a critical advancement in care.

As a specialist in treating colon cancer patients, I’m closely following this research and how it can be integrated into treatment planning to improve outcomes for my patients.

💬 Have questions about personalized colon cancer treatment or this new testing approach? I’m here to help. Reach out to discuss your specific situation or concerns.

Reviews like this from Valerie are exactly WHY I became a colore**al surgeon.💜“Dr. O’Connor is compassionate, knowledgea...
01/20/2026

Reviews like this from Valerie are exactly WHY I became a colore**al surgeon.💜

“Dr. O’Connor is compassionate, knowledgeable, and truly cares about her patients.”

Valerie, thank you for trusting me with your care and for taking the time to share your experience. Your words mean more than you know.

✨Here’s what I want everyone to understand:
Getting your colonoscopy shouldn’t be intimidating.

When patients feel informed, supported, and genuinely cared for throughout the entire process—from that first consultation through prep, procedure, and results—it transforms what many fear into an empowering act of self-care.

🥼My team and I are committed to making sure every single patient walks through our doors feeling heard, understood, and confident in their care.

No question is too small. No concern is dismissed. Your health and peace of mind are our top priorities.

To Valerie and all my patients who take that crucial step to prioritize their colore**al health—you inspire me every single day.

If you’ve been putting off scheduling your screening, let this be your sign.

Early detection saves lives, and my team is here to support you every step of the way.

**alHealth

Great news for my patients and the colore**al surgery community!A landmark study just published in JAMA Oncology analyze...
01/16/2026

Great news for my patients and the colore**al surgery community!

A landmark study just published in JAMA Oncology analyzed over 35,000 patients with stage II-III colon cancer and found that recurrence risk drops below 0.5% six years after surgery and adjuvant therapy.

‼️This is the evidence-based benchmark we’ve needed to confidently tell patients: “You’re cured.”

Why does this matter?
→ For years, we’ve struggled to give patients a clear timeline for when they could truly put cancer behind them.
→ This research, pooling data from 15 phase 3 trials, shows that recurrence risk peaks in the first year post-treatment at 6.4%, then steadily declines until it becomes negligible at the six-year mark.

What this means for patient care:
→ Better counseling – We can now give patients a concrete timeline backed by robust data
→ Improved quality of life – Patients can safely discontinue surveillance after six years, reducing anxiety and healthcare costs
→ Peace of mind – That psychological burden of “when am I really cancer-free?” finally has an answer

As someone who walks this journey with my patients from diagnosis through recovery, having this clarity is transformative.

It allows us to celebrate true milestones together and helps patients reclaim their lives with confidence.

This is why I do what I do—because outcomes like these remind us that surgical oncology isn’t just about removing disease, it’s about restoring futures.

🥼To my patients: This research reinforces what we already know—with excellent surgical care and modern adjuvant therapy, you can beat colon cancer and truly move forward.

Have questions about colon cancer prevention, screening, or treatment options?

I’m here to help. Whether you’re concerned about your risk, need a second opinion, or want to discuss the latest treatment approaches, don’t hesitate to reach out to my office.

Early detection and expert care make all the difference.

**alSurgery **alCancerAwareness

Let’s talk about something that could save your life. I see firsthand how early detection changes everything.The Reality...
01/12/2026

Let’s talk about something that could save your life.

I see firsthand how early detection changes everything.

The Reality:
→Colon cancer is 90% preventable
→It’s the second leading cause of cancer death in the U.S.
→Rates are rising in younger adults—those born 1981-1996 face twice the risk

When to Start Screenings:
⚕️Age 45 for most adults
⚕️Earlier if you have a family history, IBD, or genetic conditions
⚕️Talk to your doctor about your personal timeline

Why It Matters:
✨Early detection = 90%+ survival rate. We can remove polyps before they become cancerous.
✨Treatment is simpler.
✨You get more time with the people you love.

🥼My Message: Don’t wait for symptoms.

Every week, I see patients who wish they’d screened sooner—and grateful patients who are cancer-free because they did.

You deserve that second story.

Let’s make prevention your priority.

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