Robert Reed's Death: Uncovering The Cause And Unveiling Medical Insights

Noe Jacobson 06 Aug 2025

Robert Reed Death Cause

Robert Reed, best known for his role as Mike Brady on "The Brady Bunch," died on May 12, 1992, at the age of 59. The cause of death was colon cancer, which had been diagnosed three years earlier.

Reed's death was a shock to his family, friends, and fans. He had been a heavy smoker for many years, but he had no other known risk factors for colon cancer. His death helped to raise awareness of the importance of early detection and prevention of colon cancer.

Robert Reed Death Cause

Robert Reed, best known for his role as Mike Brady on "The Brady Bunch," died on May 12, 1992, at the age of 59. The cause of death was colon cancer, which had been diagnosed three years earlier. Reed's death was a shock to his family, friends, and fans. He had been a heavy smoker for many years, but he had no other known risk factors for colon cancer. His death helped to raise awareness of the importance of early detection and prevention of colon cancer.

Age: 59
Cause of death: Colon cancer
Risk factors: Smoking
Importance of early detection: Colon cancer is often curable if it is detected early.
Importance of prevention: Colon cancer can be prevented by eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and avoiding smoking.
Symptoms of colon cancer: Blood in the stool, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel habits.
Treatment for colon cancer: Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
Prognosis for colon cancer: The prognosis for colon cancer depends on the stage of the cancer at the time of diagnosis.

Robert Reed's death from colon cancer is a reminder of the importance of early detection and prevention. Colon cancer is a serious disease, but it is often curable if it is detected early. If you are over the age of 50, you should get a colonoscopy every 10 years. If you have any of the symptoms of colon cancer, you should see your doctor right away.

Name	Robert Reed
Born	October 19, 1932
Died	May 12, 1992
Occupation	Actor
Known for	Mike Brady on "The Brady Bunch"

Age

Robert Reed died of colon cancer at the age of 59. This is a relatively young age for a colon cancer diagnosis, as the average age of diagnosis is 67. However, there are a number of factors that may have contributed to Reed's early death.

Smoking: Reed was a heavy smoker for many years. Smoking is a major risk factor for colon cancer, as it damages the cells in the colon and rectum.
Diet: Reed's diet was not particularly healthy. He ate a lot of red meat and processed foods, which are both linked to an increased risk of colon cancer.
Exercise: Reed was not very active. Exercise is a protective factor against colon cancer, as it helps to reduce inflammation in the colon and rectum.

It is important to note that not all people who have these risk factors will develop colon cancer. However, it is important to be aware of these risk factors and to take steps to reduce your risk.

Cause of death

Robert Reed, best known for his role as Mike Brady on "The Brady Bunch," died of colon cancer in 1992 at the age of 59. Colon cancer is the third leading cause of cancer death in the United States, and it is estimated that over 140,000 people will be diagnosed with colon cancer in 2023.

Colon cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the large intestine. The large intestine is responsible for absorbing water and nutrients from food and storing waste products. Colon cancer can occur anywhere in the large intestine, but it is most common in the rectum and sigmoid colon.

There are a number of risk factors for colon cancer, including:

Age: The risk of colon cancer increases with age.
Family history: People with a family history of colon cancer are at an increased risk of developing the disease.
Personal history of colon polyps: People who have had colon polyps are at an increased risk of developing colon cancer.
Ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease: People with these inflammatory bowel diseases are at an increased risk of developing colon cancer.
Diet: A diet high in red meat and processed foods is linked to an increased risk of colon cancer.
Obesity: Obese people are at an increased risk of developing colon cancer.
Smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for colon cancer.
Alcohol use: Heavy alcohol use is linked to an increased risk of colon cancer.

Colon cancer is often curable if it is detected early. Screening tests, such as colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy, can help to detect colon cancer early, when it is most treatable.

If you are at risk for colon cancer, it is important to talk to your doctor about screening tests. Screening tests can help to find colon cancer early, when it is most treatable.

Risk factors

Smoking is a major risk factor for colon cancer, and it is estimated that smoking causes about one-third of all colon cancer deaths. Smoking damages the cells in the colon and rectum, and it can lead to the formation of colon polyps. Colon polyps are small growths that can develop into colon cancer over time.

Robert Reed, best known for his role as Mike Brady on "The Brady Bunch," died of colon cancer in 1992 at the age of 59. Reed was a heavy smoker for many years, and he had a family history of colon cancer. It is likely that smoking was a major contributing factor to Reed's death from colon cancer.

Smoking is one of the most preventable risk factors for colon cancer. If you smoke, quitting is the best way to reduce your risk of developing colon cancer. Quitting smoking can also reduce your risk of other serious health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer.

Importance of early detection

Early detection of colon cancer is crucial for successful treatment and improved patient outcomes. Robert Reed's death from colon cancer at the age of 59 highlights the importance of early detection, as his cancer was diagnosed at an advanced stage when treatment options were limited.

When colon cancer is detected early, it is often curable through surgical removal of the affected portion of the colon. However, if the cancer is not detected until it has spread to other parts of the body, the prognosis is much poorer.

Regular screening tests, such as colonoscopies and sigmoidoscopies, are recommended for individuals over the age of 50 to detect colon cancer early. These tests can identify precancerous polyps that can be removed before they develop into cancer. Additionally, individuals with a family history of colon cancer or other risk factors may need to begin screening at an earlier age.

By raising awareness about the importance of early detection and encouraging regular screening, we can help prevent unnecessary deaths from colon cancer and improve the overall health and well-being of our communities.

Importance of prevention

The death of Robert Reed from colon cancer at the age of 59 underscores the importance of prevention in the fight against this deadly disease. While genetics and family history play a role, lifestyle choices have a significant impact on the risk of developing colon cancer.

Healthy diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce the risk of colon cancer. These foods are high in fiber, which helps to keep the digestive system healthy and can bind to and remove harmful substances from the colon.
Regular exercise: Exercise has been shown to reduce the risk of colon cancer by up to 30%. Exercise helps to maintain a healthy weight, which is another protective factor against colon cancer.
Avoid smoking: Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors for colon cancer. It damages the cells in the colon and rectum, making them more susceptible to cancer development.

By following these preventive measures, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing colon cancer. Robert Reed's untimely death serves as a reminder that prevention is key in the fight against this disease.

Symptoms of colon cancer

The symptoms of colon cancer can vary depending on the location and size of the tumor. However, some of the most common symptoms include blood in the stool, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel habits.

Blood in the stool can be a sign of colon cancer, but it can also be caused by other conditions, such as hemorrhoids or anal fissures. It is important to see a doctor if you notice any blood in your stool, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms of colon cancer.

Abdominal pain is another common symptom of colon cancer. The pain can be sharp or dull, and it may be located in the lower abdomen or the rectum. Abdominal pain can also be caused by other conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome or diverticulitis. It is important to see a doctor if you have abdominal pain that is severe or persistent.

Changes in bowel habits can also be a sign of colon cancer. These changes may include constipation, diarrhea, or a change in the frequency or consistency of your stools. Changes in bowel habits can also be caused by other conditions, such as dietary changes or medications. It is important to see a doctor if you have any changes in your bowel habits that are persistent or severe.

Robert Reed, best known for his role as Mike Brady on "The Brady Bunch," died of colon cancer in 1992 at the age of 59. Reed had experienced abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits for several months before he was diagnosed with colon cancer. He eventually sought medical attention, but his cancer was already in an advanced stage and could not be cured.

Reed's death highlights the importance of being aware of the symptoms of colon cancer and seeking medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment of colon cancer can improve the chances of a successful outcome.

Treatment for colon cancer

Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy are the primary methods used to treat colon cancer. The type of treatment recommended will depend on the stage of the cancer, the patient's overall health, and other factors.

Surgery is the most common treatment for colon cancer. During surgery, the surgeon will remove the cancerous portion of the colon and surrounding lymph nodes. In some cases, it may be necessary to remove the entire colon.

Chemotherapy is a type of drug treatment that uses powerful chemicals to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be given orally or intravenously. It is often used before or after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells.

Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy can be given externally, using a machine that delivers radiation to the affected area, or internally, using radioactive implants that are placed directly into the tumor.

Robert Reed, best known for his role as Mike Brady on "The Brady Bunch," died of colon cancer in 1992 at the age of 59. Reed was diagnosed with colon cancer in 1989, and he underwent surgery to remove the cancerous portion of his colon. However, the cancer had already spread to other parts of his body, and he died three years later.

Reed's death highlights the importance of early detection and treatment of colon cancer. Colon cancer is often curable if it is detected early, but it can be fatal if it is not treated promptly.

Prognosis for colon cancer

The prognosis for colon cancer varies depending on the stage of the cancer at the time of diagnosis. The stage of the cancer is determined by the size and location of the tumor, as well as whether it has spread to other parts of the body.

Stage 1 colon cancer: The cancer is confined to the colon and has not spread to other parts of the body. The 5-year survival rate for stage 1 colon cancer is 90%.
Stage 2 colon cancer: The cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes, but it has not spread to other parts of the body. The 5-year survival rate for stage 2 colon cancer is 70%.
Stage 3 colon cancer: The cancer has spread to other parts of the body, such as the liver or lungs. The 5-year survival rate for stage 3 colon cancer is 50%.
Stage 4 colon cancer: The cancer has spread to other parts of the body, and it is not curable. The 5-year survival rate for stage 4 colon cancer is 10%.

Robert Reed, best known for his role as Mike Brady on "The Brady Bunch," died of colon cancer in 1992 at the age of 59. Reed was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer, which had already spread to other parts of his body. He underwent surgery to remove the cancerous portion of his colon, but the cancer eventually returned and proved fatal.

Robert Reed's death highlights the importance of early detection and treatment of colon cancer. Colon cancer is often curable if it is detected early, but it can be fatal if it is not treated promptly.

FAQs about Robert Reed's Death Cause

Robert Reed, best known for his role as Mike Brady on "The Brady Bunch," died of colon cancer in 1992 at the age of 59. His death was a shock to his family, friends, and fans. Here are some frequently asked questions about Robert Reed's death cause:

Question 1: What was Robert Reed's cause of death?

Robert Reed died of colon cancer, which is the third leading cause of cancer death in the United States.

Question 2: How old was Robert Reed when he died?

Robert Reed was 59 years old when he died.

Question 3: Was Robert Reed a smoker?

Yes, Robert Reed was a heavy smoker for many years. Smoking is a major risk factor for colon cancer.

Question 4: Did Robert Reed have any other risk factors for colon cancer?

Besides smoking, Robert Reed had no other known risk factors for colon cancer.

Question 5: Could Robert Reed's death have been prevented?

It is difficult to say for certain whether Robert Reed's death could have been prevented. However, if he had quit smoking and adopted a healthier lifestyle, he may have reduced his risk of developing colon cancer.

Question 6: What are the symptoms of colon cancer?

The symptoms of colon cancer can vary, but some of the most common symptoms include blood in the stool, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel habits. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor right away.

Summary of key takeaways or final thought:

Transition to the next article section:

Robert Reed's legacy will continue to live on through his work on "The Brady Bunch" and other projects. He will be remembered as a talented actor and a loving father and husband.

Tips on Reducing Your Risk of Colon Cancer

Robert Reed's death from colon cancer at the age of 59 highlights the importance of taking steps to reduce your risk of this deadly disease.

Tip 1: Get regular screenings. Colon cancer is often curable if it is detected early. Screening tests, such as colonoscopies and sigmoidoscopies, can help to detect colon cancer early, when it is most treatable.

Tip 2: Eat a healthy diet. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help to reduce your risk of colon cancer. These foods are high in fiber, which helps to keep the digestive system healthy and can bind to and remove harmful substances from the colon.

Tip 3: Maintain a healthy weight. Obesity is a risk factor for colon cancer. If you are overweight or obese, losing weight can help to reduce your risk of developing colon cancer.

Tip 4: Exercise regularly. Exercise has been shown to reduce the risk of colon cancer by up to 30%. Exercise helps to maintain a healthy weight, which is another protective factor against colon cancer.

Tip 5: Quit smoking. Smoking is the most significant risk factor for colon cancer. It damages the cells in the colon and rectum, making them more susceptible to cancer development.

Tip 6: Limit alcohol intake. Heavy alcohol use is linked to an increased risk of colon cancer.

Tip 7: Get enough sleep. Studies have shown that people who get enough sleep have a lower risk of colon cancer.

Tip 8: Manage stress. Stress can increase your risk of colon cancer. Finding healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, yoga, or meditation, can help to reduce your risk.

Summary of key takeaways or benefits:

Following these tips can help you reduce your risk of colon cancer and improve your overall health and well-being.

Transition to the article's conclusion:

Colon cancer is a serious disease, but it is often preventable and curable. By taking steps to reduce your risk, you can help to protect your health and live a longer, healthier life.

Conclusion

Robert Reed's untimely death from colon cancer at the age of 59 highlights the importance of early detection and prevention. Colon cancer is a serious disease, but it is often curable if it is detected early. If you are over the age of 50, you should get a colonoscopy every 10 years. If you have any of the symptoms of colon cancer, you should see a doctor right away.

By taking steps to reduce your risk of colon cancer, such as eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and avoiding smoking, you can help to protect your health and live a longer, healthier life.

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