Encouraging Colon Health at Rep. Mehaffie’s Health Expo

Updated 05/08/2023

We were thrilled to be invited to the 4th annual Health Expo in Hershey, PA!

Held on April 27th at the Leader Center for Active Life and coordinated by the office of Representative Tom Mehaffie, III; this event focused on health-related services to the community. What a great opportunity to discuss colon health!

Approximately 150 attendees stopped by our display to pick up tips on Good Gut Health and to grab some goodie bags. We were happy to learn that most folks understood the importance of colon screening and were very open to learning more about health resources available in the area. Our team is looking forward to more events where we can help spread awareness with the goal of preventing colon cancer and encouraging great guts!

Why Do You Need A Screening Colonoscopy?

There are many types of complications that can occur in the colon. Your medical history, physical exam, laboratory tests and x-rays can provide information useful in making a diagnosis. Directly viewing the inside of the colon by colonoscopy is usually the best exam.

Colonoscopy is commonly used for:

• Colon cancer — A serious but highly curable malignancy
• Polyps — Fleshy tumors which usually are the forerunners of colon cancer
• Colitis (ulcerative or Crohn’s) — Chronic, recurrent inflammation of the colon
• Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis — Pockets along the intestinal wall that develop over time and can become infected
• Bleeding lesions — Bleeding may occur from different points in the colon
• Abdominal symptoms — Such as pain or discomfort, particularly if associated with weight loss or anemia
• Abnormal barium x-ray exam
• Chronic diarrhea, constipation, or a change in bowel habits
• Anemia

How Can You Support Your Colon Health?

Cancer of the colon is a major health problem in the United States. It ranks as a leading form of cancer, along with lung and breast cancer. Importantly, colon cancer is also one of the most curable forms of cancer. When detected early, more than 90 percent of patients can be cured. More importantly, it is also a preventable cancer. In addition to regular screenings, your diet can play a role in helping to support your gut health. Visit our resource center to learn more about recommendations that may be appropriate for those who have never had colon cancer or polyps.

We hope you will provide us with an opportunity to talk with you about scheduling an appointment to discuss how we can best support your health goals. Please call 717-761-0930 to speak with one of our Procedure Scheduling Consultants to schedule your procedure or a pre-procedure office visit.

Pennsylvania State Representative Tom L. Mehaffie III pictured with our Provider Coordinator and West Shore Office Charge Nurse