WEST PLAINS, Mo – In observance of Colorectal Cancer Awareness month in March, Ozarks Medical Center (OMC) will host two events providing education on how to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.
The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 140,000 cases of colorectal cancer will be diagnosed in the U.S. in 2020. Colon cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men and women combined in the U.S. At the same time, colorectal cancer is also the most preventable and treatable type of cancer. The five-year survival rate for colorectal cancer found in its early stage is 90 percent, compared to 14 percent for colorectal cancer found at more advanced stages.
It is especially dangerous because in its early stages, colon cancer does not normally have noticeable symptoms. This makes early and regular screening particular critical. Most colon cancers develop first as polyps, which are abnormal growths inside the colon or rectum that may later become cancerous if not removed.
Colon cancer affects men and women of all racial and ethnic groups, and is most often found in people 50 years or older. Because of this, all adults over 50 should have a screening colonoscopy, which is covered by most insurance plans. This disease takes the lives of more than 50,000 people every year. Colon cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States, and the second leading cause of cancer death. If you would like to schedule a screening colonoscopy, please call OMC Internal Medicine at 417-257-5989, or OMC Surgical Services at 417-255-9700.
In recognition of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, OMC will host the following community events.
March 20
Community Education Luncheon
12-1 p.m., Club 60 Steakhouse, 8773 Old Hwy 60, Mountain Grove
The speaker is Dr. Magdy Giurgius, Board Certified General and Bariatric Surgeon discussing colon cancer. The lunch is free, but reservations are required. Call 417-257-6735.
March 26
Community Education Dinner
6-7 p.m., OMC Parkway Center, 1211 Parkway Center, West Plains.
The speakers are Dr. Christopher Cochran, Board Certified Internist, and Dr. Magdy Giurgius, Board Certified General and Bariatric Surgeon, and discussing colon cancer. The dinner is free, but reservations are required. Call 417-257-6735.
“We are extremely proud of our expert screening team that is delivering innovative medicine and compassionate care right here in our community,” said Pam Ream, Vice President of the OMC Medical Group. “Since March is colon cancer awareness month, there is no better time to get screened and learn about early detection of colon cancer.”
Ozarks Medical Center is a system of care encompassing eight primary care and 16 specialty clinics, along with complete rehabilitation, behavioral healthcare and home care services. While the 114-bed acute care hospital cares for more than 5,400 admissions, the entire medical system has more than 364,000 patient visits annually in South Central Missouri and Northern Arkansas. For more information about OMC, visit www.OzarksMedicalCenter.com.
