45 is the new 50: Learning About Colorectal Cancer

I’m sure just about all of us have been impacted by cancer in some fashion, some more directly than others.

It’s simply a horrible disease and the word itself sends shockwaves through your body like no other.  However we have come to know that there are forms of cancer that are very treatable especially with early detection.

I say this because Community Medical Center will host its 15^th Annual Colorectal Awareness Symposium next Tuesday, March 26^th from 5:30-7:30pm and as it’s been from the start it will be chaired by Dr. Paul J. DeMartino.  This free event will include brief discussions given by experts in nutrition, gastroenterology, oncology and surgery and will provide updates on prevention strategies, risk factors and more.

The symposium is a great way to raise public awareness regarding colorectal cancer which excluding skin cancers is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women.

I’ve been going for regular colonoscopies since I turned 50 but now 45 is the new 50 and it’s recommended that those with an average risk of colorectal cancer begin regular screenings at the age of 45.  Dr. DeMartino (who is my gastro guy) is passionate when it comes to getting a colonoscopy which so many people avoid, especially men who are at greater risk. It’s especially frustrating because this form of cancer is preventable, treatable and beatable.

All your questions can be answered at next week’s symposium which includes by the way dinner, valet and free parking.  However seating is limited so please call Community Medical Center to register at 888-724-7123.

By the way today is the first day of spring and while it’s still a bit cool here is some encouraging news from The Weather Company.  They are predicting near or slightly above average temperatures for the northeast over the next three months and May is forecasted to be warmer than usual.