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Get a Colonoscopy, Get a Gas Card at Fort HealthCare

Thursday, March 3, 2016

Are you due for a colon screening? Are you are over the age of 50 and have never had one? Then it is time for a checkup. Fort HealthCare is proudly participating in Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month sharing information and $20 gas cards for eligible patients. Even if you do not have a family history of colon cancer, we encourage you to speak with your doctor about a colon screening.

Colon cancer is a big deal in the United States. Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. According to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, “most of these deaths could have been prevented if everyone over the age of 50 years got screened for colorectal cancer.” Polyps are growths that stick out of the lining of the colon or rectum, often show no symptoms, and some types can turn into cancer within five to 15 years. Doing a routine colonoscopy, polyps can be removed, preventing cancer from ever forming.

Community members are encouraged to call and schedule a colonoscopy at Fort HealthCare between now and June 30, 2016. Eligible patients, those over the age of 50 who are otherwise healthy and are a first time screening, who schedule and come in for a colonoscopy before June 30th will receive a $20 gas card.

A colonoscopy is a quick and easy outpatient procedure which uses a colonoscope that allows the doctor to look at the inner lining of you large intestines and identifies polyps. A colonoscopy can be vital for a healthy, happy and long life. The process usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour, and only occasionally causes a small degree of discomfort. Risk can include infection, perforation of the bowel, bleeding or an adverse reaction to medication; however, risks are extremely rare and are minimal when compared with those of colon cancer. Patients should discuss the benefits and risks of a colonoscopy with their doctor, especially if there are questions or concerns.

To book an appointment, contact Fort HealthCare Surgical Associates at (920) 563-7900 or the Lake Mills clinic at (920) 648-8393. If you’re not ready to make an appointment at this time, you are more than welcome and encouraged to schedule a colonoscopy at any time throughout the year.