Mahaska Health Partnership Encourages Colonoscopies
Mahaska Health Partnership
MAHASKA COUNTY – Colorectal cancer affects many Iowans 50 years and older. Mahaska Health Partnership wants to remind the public that starting at age 50, men and women of average risk for developing should get a colonoscopy every ten years.
According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. Most colorectal cancers grow slowly over several years and usually develop in the form of a polyp on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. Simple removal of this polyp via colonoscopy significantly reduces the risk of colorectal cancer.
“If you are over the age of 50 and at average risk for colorectal cancer, you should have a colonoscopy every ten years,” said MHP General Surgeon Timothy Breon, MD, FACS. “People with a family history or other risk factors should consult their family doctor to see if more frequent colonoscopies are needed.
“The procedure has the best results for early detection of colorectal cancer,” Dr. Breon shared. “People don’t remember the procedure because we use medications to keep them sedated.”
Mahaska Health Partnership’s Surgical Services area has expanded to accommodate more procedures, such as colonoscopies, which can be performed at a quicker pace. “We have added an additional endoscopy room, allowing our surgeons to give colonoscopies more frequently because one room can be prepped while the other is in use,” Dr. Breon shared. “This new area also has bigger recovery rooms where our patients can relax in a private environment until they are ready to go home.”
Dr. Breon went on to share the importance of colonoscopies. “No one likes the idea of having to undergo this procedure. However, it is a very important preventative measure against the third leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. I strongly encourage anyone who is 50 years and older to consult with their primary care provider about the best options regarding their colon health.”
Mahaska Health Partnership, located in Oskaloosa, is a non-profit health system accredited by the Joint Commission. It is guided by its mission to provide exceptional customer service and health improvement, linking the science of medicine with the humanity of compassionate care. For more information about how Mahaska Health Partnership is making healthcare personal, visit www.mahaskahealth.org.
