2. Loss of Appetite: The Mysterious Disinclination
A decreased desire to eat, often termed anorexia in medical parlance, is one of the more understated symptoms of Lynch Syndrome. But why would a genetic predisposition to colorectal cancer affect one’s eagerness for food?
The gastrointestinal tract, comprising our stomach, liver, and intestines, is responsible for digesting and absorbing what we eat. Any malignancy or irregularity here can result in a decreased appetite. In cases of colorectal cancer, the tumor may physically obstruct food passage or release chemicals that affect hunger.
Interestingly, the concept of food has evolved throughout human history. Once a mere survival tool, food has transformed into a social and cultural expression. Imagine how alarming it might feel for someone who once relished in gourmet experiences to suddenly find eating a chore.
Such a symptom isn’t isolated to Lynch Syndrome alone. Many disorders, from depression to other types of cancers, list decreased appetite among their symptoms. What’s fascinating, however, is the body’s way of signaling that something is amiss.
Loss of appetite, in the context of Lynch Syndrome, isn’t just about missing a meal or two. It represents a deeper, more prolonged issue. Consistent neglect of nutrition can lead to a host of other problems, emphasizing the interconnectedness of the body’s systems. (2)
