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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Susanna Minegishi
Karen Gavender
Black History… and Future
African Americans are at highest risk for Colon Cancer: Screen for Life
Tucson, AZ (1/26/09) – African Americans rate of being diagnosed with colon cancer is higher than any other population group in the U.S. Regular screenings and physician visits can mean colon cancer is treatable and beatable for those at risk. In conjunction with Black History Month this February, the physicians of Arizona Gastroenterology are strongly encouraging those of African American descent to learn their families’ medical history and schedule a colorectal exam to catch any sign of colon cancer before it’s too late.
According to the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, colon cancer is the third most common cancer among African Americans, with more than 16,000 cases estimated to be diagnosed each year and approximately 7,000 deaths annually.
The seven physicians who make up Arizona Gastroenterology encourage all at-risk African Americans to get screened today.
“It’s very important that African Americans acknowledge their family medical history. If colon cancer runs in your family, we strongly urge you to schedule a screening immediately. In some cases medical history is not relevant, so we encourage folks to get screened for safety. Early screenings drastically increase survival rates,” says Arizona Gastroenterology physician Dr. Bryan Contreras.
Start a conscious effort to take control of your health by taking preventative measures, like colorectal screening, for a longer and healthier life.
Schedule a colon exam today by calling Arizona Gastroenterology at one of its three locations in Southern Arizona: Ina and La Cholla; Northwest Medical Center in Oro Valley; and Green Valley.
Arizona Gastroenterology can be reached by calling (520) 742-4139 or by visiting www.azgastroenterology.com. |
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