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.

‼️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.

Let’s find the colon cancer screening that’s right for YOU.As Director of Colon and Re**al Surgery at NewYork-Presbyteri...
01/08/2026

Let’s find the colon cancer screening that’s right for YOU.

As Director of Colon and Re**al Surgery at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, the most important thing I can tell you is this: the best colon cancer screening is the one you’ll actually do.

I know the idea of screening can feel overwhelming.

So let’s break down your options—because you have more than you might think.

Colonoscopy – The Gold Standard
⚕️Done every 10 years
⚕️We can see everything AND remove polyps on the spot
⚕️Yes, the prep is no fun—but it’s one day that could save your life

Stool-Based Tests (FIT, FIT-DNA)
⚕️Done at home, annually or every 1-3 years
⚕️Non-invasive and private
⚕️If positive, you’ll need a follow-up colonoscopy

CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy)
⚕️Done every 5 years
⚕️Less invasive than traditional colonoscopy
⚕️Still requires bowel prep

Blood Tests (Newer Options)
⚕️Simple blood draw
⚕️Still being refined, but promising for the future
⚕️Positive results require colonoscopy confirmation

Here’s what matters most:
Don’t let perfect be the enemy of good.

If a full colonoscopy feels like too much right now, start with a stool test.

If you’re nervous about the process, talk to your doctor about sedation options and what to expect.

The screening you complete is infinitely better than the “perfect” one you keep putting off.

I’ve held the hands of patients who caught their cancer early because they chose screening—any screening. And I’ve had heartbreaking conversations with those who waited too long.

You deserve the first story.

Talk to your doctor. Ask questions. Choose what works for your life, your schedule, your comfort level. Then follow through.

Your future self will thank you.

Drop a 💜 if you’ve been screened or plan to schedule yours soon.

“I had Stage 3 cancer and had no idea.”James Van Der Beek words in his recent interview with Craig Melvin on the Today S...
01/07/2026

“I had Stage 3 cancer and had no idea.”

James Van Der Beek words in his recent interview with Craig Melvin on the Today Show should be a wake-up call for all of us.

His symptoms?
🚩A change in bowel habits.
🚩Something feeling “off.”

Nothing dramatic. Nothing that screamed emergency.

But he trusted his gut and asked for a colonoscopy at 46.

That decision saved his life.

As a colore**al surgeon, I see this all the time.

Patients tell me they knew something wasn’t quite right, but the symptoms seemed too minor to worry about.

Here’s what I need you to understand:
Colore**al cancer doesn’t always announce itself loudly.

Sometimes it’s just:
🚩A subtle change in bowel habits
🚩A feeling that something’s off
🚩No symptoms at all

James woke up from his colonoscopy to hear those three words: “It is cancer.” Stage 3. And he never saw it coming.

But here’s the truth that gives me hope every single day:
✨This is one of the most preventable cancers we have.
✨Screening finds it early—or even prevents it entirely by catching precancerous polyps.

If you’re 45 or older, you’re eligible for screening.

Don’t wait for dramatic symptoms. Don’t wait for the “right time.”

As James told Craig: “Get tested. Talk to your doctor.”

That conversation could save your life.
Have questions about screening?

Concerned about symptoms? Let’s talk. Drop a comment below, or call my office schedule a consultation.

I’m here to help you take control of your health.

**alHealth

“It’s not easy seeing someone you love go through such a difficult health journey, but just knowing she was in Dr. O’Con...
01/02/2026

“It’s not easy seeing someone you love go through such a difficult health journey, but just knowing she was in Dr. O’Connor’s hands gave a level of comfort and peace like no other.”

Reviews like this remind us why we do what we do. When families tell us they felt seen, heard, and supported during one of life’s most challenging moments—that’s everything.

Colon cancer treatment isn’t just about medical expertise. It’s about compassion, communication, and being there for both patients AND their loved ones through every step of the journey.

To the partner who wrote this review: Thank you for trusting us with your loved one’s care. Your words mean more than you know.

To everyone facing a difficult diagnosis: you don’t have to face it alone. We’re here—with the expertise, compassion, and support you deserve.

8 Foods That May Help Reduce Colon Cancer Risk 🥗Research suggests these foods may help protect your colon health:🥬Leafy ...
12/30/2025

8 Foods That May Help Reduce Colon Cancer Risk 🥗

Research suggests these foods may help protect your colon health:

🥬Leafy Greens - Spinach, kale, and collards are packed with fiber and folate
🐟Fatty Fish - Salmon and sardines provide omega-3s that fight inflammation
🌾Whole Grains - Brown rice, quinoa, and oats deliver crucial fiber
🫐Berries - Blueberries and raspberries are loaded with antioxidants
🫘Legumes - Beans and lentils offer fiber and cancer-fighting compounds
🧄Garlic & Onions - Contains sulfur compounds that may protect colon cells
🥦Cruciferous Vegetables - Broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts have protective properties
🥜Nuts - Almonds and walnuts provide healthy fats and fiber

A reminder that prevention starts with what’s on your plate AND regular screenings.

If you’re 45+, talk to your doctor about a colonoscopy.

Early detection saves lives. Knowledge is power. Your health matters.

12/23/2025

This holiday season, give yourself the gift of health. 🎁

While we’re gathered with friends and family this holiday season, let’s remember that colore**al cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in the U.S.—but it’s also one of the most preventable.

If you’re 45 or older (or younger with a family history), a screening could save your life. Regular screenings can catch polyps before they become cancer, and early detection dramatically improves outcomes.

This year, make your health a priority. Schedule that colonoscopy you’ve been putting off. It’s easier than you think, and it could be the most important gift you give yourself and your loved ones.

Talk to your doctor about screening options. Your family wants you at many more holiday tables to come. 💜

**alCancer

🧬 New Clue in Rising Colore**al Cancer Cases Among Young AdultsColore**al cancer in people under 50 has been rising 2% a...
12/22/2025

🧬 New Clue in Rising Colore**al Cancer Cases Among Young Adults

Colore**al cancer in people under 50 has been rising 2% annually since the mid-1990s. Yale researchers may have discovered why.

The numbers:
• 154,000 new U.S. cases expected in 2025
• 1 in 5 diagnoses will be under age 55
• It’s the 3rd most common cancer in the U.S.

The Finding:
A new study found that tumors in younger patients showed significantly reduced levels of homovanillic acid—a molecule produced when the body breaks down dopamine. This was the only metabolite uniquely decreased in early-onset tumors.

Why It Matters:
This suggests colore**al cancer may operate differently in younger people, potentially requiring different prevention and treatment approaches.

While diet, exercise, and obesity are known risk factors, this research suggests disruptions in dopamine metabolism may play a previously unknown role.

What’s Next:
Researchers are now testing these findings in larger patient groups and blood samples to see if this marker could enable earlier detection.

Study published in Free Radical Biology and Medicine | Yale School of Public Health

**alCancer

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