UnityPoint Health –Trinity and Gilda’s Club Quad Cities are hosting free, in-person educational workshops to help screen for colon cancer.
Regular screenings are key in identifying colon cancer early and increasing survival rates.
“Cancer is a tough topic to talk about, but the best defense to saving you or a lGilda’s Club Quad Citiesoved one’s life are early and regular screenings,” Tricia Fisher, director of Oncology Services at UnityPoint Health – Trinity, said in a news release.
There are two upcoming workshops being offered:
- 6-7 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 3. at the Esperanza Center, 335 5th Ave., Moline.
- 6-7 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 10, at the Davenport Public Library, 321 North Main St.
Experts recommend people 45 or older be screened for colon cancer, or earlier if you have a family history of colon cancer or irritable bowel syndrome.
“Having no symptoms does not mean you don’t have colon cancer. Unfortunately, many people with colon cancer do not experience symptoms, especially in the early stages of the disease,” said Ms. Fisher. “The only way to know for sure is routine screenings.”
Screenings are quick and easy, taking only minutes from the comfort of your home. Learn more at gildasclubqc.org/colon and call (309) 779-5796 to request a free at-home screening kit.
“Together, we’re making screenings more affordable and convenient, ensuring anyone who needs it can be screened,” said Ms. Fisher. “By increasing access to testing, we can help promote better outcomes with early detection.”
Colorectal cancer is a disease in which early detection is important. The earlier doctors can find cancer, when it’s small and hasn’t spread, the easier it is to treat. Simple screenings can increase survival chances to nearly 95%.
“Receiving a cancer diagnosis is never easy. We are here to provide support, education and hope if results are not what people expected,” said Kelsey Allen, Gilda’s Club QC program director. “No one should face cancer alone.”
