Local Surgeon to Present Cancer Prevention Program

According the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in men and women in the United States (excluding skin cancers). Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States with an estimated 52,180 deaths (26,000 men and 26, 180 women) during 2007.

In recognition of National Colorectal Cancer Month, Alleghany Regional Hospital and Dr. Paul LaBrie will present a program on Colorectal Cancer Prevention. The program will be held on Wednesday, March 18th at 11:30 am at the Alleghany Highlands YMCA. Dr. LaBrie will conduct a brief program and accept questions about the signs, symptoms and prevention of colorectal cancer. The program is open to the public and free of charge. To ensure adequate seating, please call the Consult-A-Nurse reservation line toll free at 877-2HCA DOCS (877-242-2362).

According to the American Cancer Society, despite evidence showing colorectal screening can save lives and the availability of several options for patients, only about half of the U.S. population aged 50 and older has been tested recently for colon cancer. “Colon cancer is one of the only cancers that can be prevented through regular testing,” said Durado D. Brooks, M.D., director of prostate and colorectal cancer, American Cancer Society. The American Cancer society recommends routine screening for men and women starting at age 50, and earlier testing for those at higher than average risk. Regularly scheduled screening can not only detect cancer at an early and more treatable stage, but can also prevent cancer from developing by removing precancerous polyps before they become cancerous.