As part of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, on Thursday, March 30, at 5:30 pm Doylestown Health Gastroenterologists, Dr. Marion Protano and Dr. Hannah Do, will speak on colorectal cancer screening and prevention at the Health and Wellness Center.

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States. “Colon cancer is preventable, treatable and beatable. It is preventable because if you undergo screening tests and polyps are found and removed this will prevent colon cancer; it is treatable and beatable if colon cancer is found in early stages,” says Dr. Protano. “Death from colon cancer is on the rise in young to middle aged people, which is why guidelines have changed the screening age to start at 45 if you have no risk factors. It is important you talk to your doctor about colon cancer screening options and when the appropriate time is for you to start colon cancer screening to decrease your risk of developing it.”

Following the presentation, attendees will receive a fecal immunochemical test (FIT) to complete in the comfort of their own home. The FIT test procedure analyzes stool for the presence of specific blood in the colon that can be a sign of cancer.

The test does not diagnose cancer, but signals that something could be going on and additional testing is needed to make sure everything is okay. This screening is intended for those 45+ years old, who are uninsured or underinsured and have not had a screening within the last two years. This program is NOT intended for individuals currently under the care of a gastroenterologist.

Registration is required and space is limited. To register, call 267.885.1580.