March is colon cancer awareness month. In conjunction with the campaign, Spalding Regional is offering free colon cancer awareness seminars in the community. If you have a group that is interested in hosting a presentation, contact Community Education at (770) 233-2001.

Colon cancer is the #3 cancer killer in the U.S. But it doesn’t have to be. Colon cancer has a 90% survival rate when detected early.

A colonoscopy is one of the leading tools used to diagnose colon cancer early and potentially prevent it. It’s nothing to be embarrassed about and it could save your life.

Many people do not experience any symptoms of the disease until the advanced stages. So it is important to get the preventive screenings as recommended. The procedure is covered by Medicare and may be covered by your private insurance.

If you’re 50 years or age or older, or have a family history of colon cancer, talk to your doctor about getting screened. To schedule a screening colonoscopy at Spalding Regional Medical Center, contact your primary care physician for a referral to one of our gastroenterologists.

For help finding a physician or for a free booklet on colon cancer, please call (770) 467-6136.

For more information on a colonoscopy, click here.