Colon cancer is dangerous but largely preventable

March is national Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and Boone Hospital Center is reminding people that this deadly disease is largely preventable with proper screening.

Colorectal cancer itself is very dangerous and is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. Every year, about 50,000 Americans die of colorectal cancer.

While the cancer is dangerous, the good news is that screening techniques, most commonly a colonoscopy, can detect and remove cancer-causing polyps before they become dangerous. Boone Hospital and government health officials recommend that most people have colonoscopies at regular intervals starting at age 50.

A family history of colon cancer is the leading reason why some people are asked to come in for colonoscopies at an earlier age. That’s why it is important to discuss colon cancer with family members and encourage them to go for regular screenings.

Boone Hospital Center’s GI Lab has certified staff with a combined 217 years of experience. They also use the latest colonoscopy technology.

Having a colonoscopy done in a hospital setting offers the quickest access to surgery and other hospital services, should the screening uncover a problem. Boone Hospital’s GI Lab also offers same-day colonoscopy results with a visual report.

For information on how to schedule a screening, call the GI Lab at 573.815.6344.