Coloproctology (COLON CANCER + BUTT FUN) with Carmen Fong - Ologies with Alie Ward Recap

Podcast: Ologies with Alie Ward

Published: 2026-03-11

Duration: 1 hr 28 min

Guests: Dr. Carmen Fong

Summary

Colorectal surgeon Dr. Carmen Fong discusses colon health, hemorrhoids, constipation, and the importance of early screenings for colorectal cancer in an entertaining and informative way.

What Happened

Dr. Carmen Fong dives deep into the world of coloproctology, discussing the anatomy and function of the colon and rectum. She explains the difference between gastroenterologists and colorectal surgeons, noting that surgeons focus on anal rectal issues and advanced abdominal operations. Fong stresses the importance of regular screenings for colorectal cancer, particularly as diagnoses in younger populations are on the rise. She highlights the change in recommended screening age from 50 to 45, emphasizing that catching cancer early makes treatment far easier and more effective.

Listeners learn about the mechanics of defecation, including the role of the colon's various regions and sphincters, and how fiber and hydration are essential for healthy bowel movements. Fong also discusses the rise in hemorrhoids among younger adults due to sedentary lifestyles and excessive time spent on the toilet, especially during the pandemic. She clarifies the difference between internal and external hemorrhoids and shares best practices for managing symptoms, from lifestyle changes to compound ointments and minimally invasive procedures.

The conversation turns to common misconceptions and practices around colon health, including the dangers of regular colon hydrotherapy and the overuse of enemas, which can disrupt the microbiome and cause mucosal injuries. Fong recommends safer alternatives like warm water enemas and stresses the importance of moderation.

Dr. Fong also candidly addresses questions around anal sex, including the importance of preparation, safety, and using plenty of lubrication. She debunks myths about anal hygiene, advising against excessive washing with soap, which can strip the skin's natural barrier. She advocates for bidets as a healthier alternative to toilet paper, noting their benefits for hemorrhoids and overall rectal health.

The episode covers fascinating topics like the anal microbiome, endometriosis in the rectum, and the impact of pregnancy on colorectal health. Fong explains how hormonal changes during pregnancy can exacerbate constipation and hemorrhoids, and she provides advice for managing common postpartum issues like anal sphincter injuries.

Finally, Dr. Fong underscores the importance of destigmatizing colorectal health and seeking medical advice for symptoms like rectal bleeding, which could signal serious conditions like colorectal cancer. She shares compelling statistics about the rise of colon cancer in younger populations and the life-saving potential of early detection through screenings.

Key Insights

• The recommended age for colorectal cancer screenings has dropped from 50 to 45 due to rising cases in younger populations. Early detection drastically simplifies treatment, yet many people delay screenings out of discomfort or stigma—often at a steep cost.
• Spending excessive time on the toilet increases pressure on the rectal veins, leading to a rise in hemorrhoids, especially among younger adults during the pandemic. Sitting for long periods, combined with sedentary lifestyles, has made this once-older issue far more common.
• Regular colon hydrotherapy and enemas can cause mucosal injuries and disrupt the gut microbiome. A safer alternative is a warm water enema, but the key is moderation—overuse can do more harm than good.
• Soap can strip the natural barrier of the anal skin, worsening irritation and hemorrhoids. A bidet is a healthier option for cleaning, offering gentler hygiene while reducing discomfort, especially for those with rectal health issues.

Key Questions Answered

What does Dr. Carmen Fong say about hemorrhoid treatments on Ologies?

Dr. Fong explains that hemorrhoid treatments range from lifestyle changes like increased fiber and water intake to medical options like compound ointments, rubber band ligation, and excisional surgery for severe cases.

What are Dr. Carmen Fong's tips for colorectal cancer prevention?

Dr. Fong recommends regular screenings starting at age 45, eating vegetables with every meal, hydrating, exercising daily, and avoiding processed meats, sugary drinks, and char-grilled foods.

How does Dr. Carmen Fong describe the safety of colon hydrotherapy?

Dr. Fong advises against regular colon hydrotherapy, warning that it can cause mucosal injuries, disrupt the microbiome, and, in severe cases, lead to colon perforation.