Incredible Colon to be displayed at Baptist Health Madisonville on March 21

Incredible Colon to be displayed at Baptist Health Madisonville on March 21

(Madisonville, Ky.)  March 15, 2019 — The Incredible Colon exhibit will be displayed from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, March 21, in the Jack L. Hamman Heart & Vascular Center Lobby at Baptist Health Madisonville.

The Kentucky Cancer Program’s 20-foot inflatable, interactive and educational exhibit allows visitors to learn about colon cancer, including risks, prevention, early detection and treatment.

Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the nation, with the mortality rate in Kentucky among the highest, killing nearly 900 people each year. Colon cancer rates in our region are higher than the national average, even though it may be prevented or cured if detected early with regular screenings.  When found in its earliest stages, the five-year survival rate is 90%.

The American Cancer Society recommends that adults 45 and older be screened. Screenings should start earlier if you have a family history of colon cancer or polyps.  Staff will be present at the event to provide educational materials and assistance for referrals for screening colonoscopies, Cologuard® or FIT testing.

Risk factors associated with colon cancer include family history, diet low in vegetables, excessive alcohol use, tobacco use, obesity and a sedentary lifestyle. Colon cancer symptoms include rectal bleeding, change in bowel frequency or stool size, unexplained anemia or weight loss, fatigue, persistent abdominal pain and frequent vomiting.

To schedule a screening colonoscopy, call 270.824.5804. To determine your risk level for developing colon cancer take a free, online health risk assessment at BaptistHealth.com/Madisonvillecolon and discuss the results with your physician.