Approximately 140,000 people are diagnosed with colon cancer in the U.S. and over 50,000 people die from it annually. It is the third most common cancer in the United States and the second leading cause of death from cancer. However, colorectal cancer is different than most cancers — it’s largely preventable and beatable.

The number one way to detect colon cancer is through screening, namely a colonoscopy. Of course, the greatest barrier to long-term colon health is the social unease when it comes to sharing information about your bowels.

Despite the prevalence of colorectal cancers, many individuals opt to not discuss their bowel habits during wellness visits or choose not to make a call if they have a concern. I would like to encourage men and women of all ages to talk with their primary care provider about their health concerns as well as about their family history of disease.

Interested in knowing more? I will be presenting on Colon Cancer at the next Red Hot Mamas (RHM) Event. Ladies, feel free to invite the men in your lives to this very important seminar.

When we measure quality in colonoscopy with ADR: adenoma detection rate — statistically, we find more adenomas/precancerous polyps in male colons.

This seminar will be held in the Pebble Creek Conference Room at the Portneuf Medical Center on Nov. 6. Doors open at 6 p.m.; the presentation begins at 6:30 p.m. Light refreshments will be served.

To reserve a seat, visit www.portneuf.org/event/rhm or call 208-239-2033. To learn more about Portneuf’s upcoming seminars, including Red Hot Mamas®, be sure to like Portneuf Medical Center on Facebook.

The Red Hot Mamas® organization is a leading provider of information and support programs to women to help optimize their health at menopause and beyond. When it comes to your digestive system, find a provider who is experienced and expertly trained to care for you. Please feel free to schedule a consultation. I can be reached at Portneuf Medical Group Gastroenterology at 208-232-6616.

Judith Csanky, MD is a board certified gastroenterologist. She specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the digestive tract, hepatology, inflammatory bowel disease, endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and general GI endoscopic procedures such as colonoscopy.