Sanford Vermillion recognizes Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Sanford Vermillion is recognizing Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month by encouraging patients to schedule a potentially life-saving colonoscopy.

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. This year, an estimated 149,000 people nationwide will be diagnosed with a form of colorectal cancer. Early detection means many of those cancers can be cured.

Colorectal cancer is 90 percent treatable when detected early.

Men and women over the age of 50 are at risk for colorectal cancer and should be screened.

Patients with a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps may need to be screened at a younger age, and have follow-up exams at more frequent intervals.

“Some warning signs of colorectal cancer include change in bowel habits or blood in the stool, unexplained anemia, unexplained weight loss, fatigue or vomiting. Anyone experiencing warning signs should see their regular physician and schedule a colorectal cancer screening,” said Fernando Escobar, MD, FACS.

Colonoscopy uses a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera attached to examine the lining of the large intestine. The procedure takes about 30 minutes and is performed under sedation.

Local surgeon Fernando Escobar, MD, board certified in general surgery regularly provides colonoscopies at Sanford Hospital Vermillion. He is available to perform laparoscopic procedures as well as other common procedures and general surgeries.

To schedule an appointment for a colorectal cancer screening, call Sanford Clinic Vermillion at (605) 624-9111.