HSHS St. Elizabeth’s hosts public education event, Health Connections, for Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

(O’FALLON, IL) HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital is hosting a free educational health presentation, Health Connections, on Thursday, March 28 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the boardroom of the hospital. Lunch and refreshments will be provided but seats are limited so RSVPs are required. 

The topic for this session is “Know your colon: A talk for Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month” presented by Deirdre Hart, MD, a colon and rectal surgeon with Lincoln Surgical Associates, Ltd. and who is on staff at HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital.

The public is invited to learn about colorectal cancer risk factors, signs and symptoms, plus current screening methods and treatments at this newly introduced educational presentation series.

Colorectal cancer the second most common cause of cancer deaths in men and women combined. However, it is most important to know that it is preventable and highly treatable if detected early.

“The guidelines for screening have recently changed,” Hart said. “It’s now recommended you undergo screening at the age of 45, which is different than age 50 that everybody is used to.” It is important for the public to understand their individual risks and talk to their primary care physician.

There are multiple risk factors for colorectal cancer including family history, genetic factors, ethnicity and lifestyle. Colorectal Cancer Awareness month is observed nationally every March to challenge assumptions and misconceptions about colorectal cancer by dispelling myths, raising awareness and connecting people across the country with information and support.

Those interested in attending the Health Connections presentation may email StEMarketing@hshs.org or call 618-234-2120, ext. 41270 to register. The boardroom is located on the first floor of the hospital. Enter the building at the main entrance under the blue "Hospital" sign and continue down the hall to the boardroom.