Mayor Robert Reichert Proclaims March Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Mayor Robert Reichert Proclaims March Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

MCCG to Provide Education about Valuable Screenings, Wellness

MACON, GA (Wednesday, March 6, 2013) – A proclamation by Macon's Mayor Robert Reichert last Friday, March 1 launched The Medical Center of Central Georgia's (MCCG) recognition of National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.

Colorectal cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S.  Colorectal cancer is particularly prevalent in Bibb County, one of 10 counties in Georgia with the highest incidence rates for African-American colorectal cancer. African-Americans in general experience higher incidence rates of colorectal cancer than any other race.

The Centers for Disease Control estimate that as many as 60 percent of colorectal cancer-related deaths could be prevented if all men and women age 50 years and older were routinely screened. Screening tests can find precancerous polyps that can be removed before they turn into cancer. Screenings can also find colorectal cancer early, when treatments work best. These routine screenings are available at the MCCG's Cancer Life Center, 1014 Forsyth St. in Macon, throughout the year.

In order to educate the community about risk, screenings and other preventative measures, MCCG will host the following events during the month of March:

Colon Cancer Awareness Open House – Wednesday, March 6

The community is invited to visit MCCG's Center for Ambulatory Services on Wednesday, March 6 from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. Visitors will receive information on colorectal cancer, view demonstrations of colonoscopy equipment, enjoy refreshments and register for door prizes.

Lynch Family Gathering – Thursday, March 7

Lynch syndrome is an inherited condition linked to increased risk for colon cancer and other cancers. If you or a family member has been diagnosed with Lynch syndrome, please join genetic counselor Christine Delaney for this luncheon at 12:00 p.m. in MCCG's Lanier Conference Room. Please RSVP to (478) 633-8537.

That's The Bottom Line – Tuesday, March 12

The Cancer Life Center at MCCG is addressing the disparity of colorectal cancer incidence rates among African-Americans in Bibb County through “That's The Bottom Line” seminars. The community is invited to attend the next seminar at Mt. Moriah Baptist Church, 2789 Millerfield Road in Macon, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. African-Americans age 50 or older with no prior history of colorectal cancer are encouraged to attend.

In addition to these events, anyone who is screened for colorectal cancer at MCCG's Center for Ambulatory Services during the month of March will be entered into a prize drawing. The 200th and 400th colonoscopy patients will each receive a $100.00 Carrabba's gift card. To schedule a colonoscopy at MCCG's Center for Ambulatory Services, contact your physician for a referral.