Colonoscopies: A Vital Tool in Cancer Prevention
In observance of Colon Cancer Awareness Month, Veterans Memorial Hospital emphasizes the importance of early detection and prevention through regular colon cancer screenings. Despite being preventable, colon cancer remains the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Routine screenings, such as colonoscopies, can help identify and remove pre-cancerous polyps before they develop into a serious health threat.
Colonoscopies are a vital tool in cancer prevention. They are a very thorough test for detecting colon cancer and are routinely performed in the Veterans Memorial Hospital surgical suite. These procedures are quick and efficient, typically taking about three hours from start to finish. With general surgery available three days per week—Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays—scheduling colonoscopies is very accessible for those at risk.
The following is a testimonial from a patient, who had a first ever colonoscopy recently that helped prevent future colon cancer.
“On February 16, I had my first ever colonoscopy. Dr. Yee was my surgeon and he was great! I wish I could remember some of the fun jokes he told me that pertained to my procedure that day, but they were very funny, keeping it very light. He found a lot of polyps and removed all of them that he could, but he did find two larger ones that he biopsied. Fortunately they tested fine, but due to the size, they will now be removed in La Crosse next month.”
“I was a patient of Dr. McMullan’s and following his retirement, I am now seeing Minji Ransom, Nurse Practitioner at the Postville Clinic. She is very thorough and insisted I have a colonoscopy done. I requested to take the pills for my prep for the colonoscopy instead of drinking the prep and Dr. Yee agreed. He said he was very happy with how well they worked for the procedure. The only downfall is they are a little more expensive than drinking the prep, but it was much easier.”
“It all went so well and I am very thankful Minji insisted I finally have a colonoscopy. We are so lucky to have this facility so close to home. I went home and told all my children to be sure they get their colonoscopies because this is so important and easy to prevent.”
Early detection does save lives, as seen in this case. Colon cancer is highly treatable when detected early. Veterans Memorial Hospital encourages everyone to talk to their primary care provider about colon cancer screening. Early detection is key to prevention, and with easier access to screenings, it's an opportunity for everyone to take charge of their health.
For more information on scheduling a colonoscopy, please contact Veterans Memorial Hospital or visit our website at www.veteransmemorialhospital.com.
