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Currently, colon cancer affects 1 in 20 people. One in 20.

Symptoms like persistent stomachaches and pains, rapid weight loss and bloody bowel movements may be symptoms of colon cancer.

And sometimes, like Michele learned, there are no symptoms at all.

“[A colonoscopy] was the only thing I hadn’t done, and I really didn’t think much of it,” remembers colon cancer survivor Michele. “I felt great; there wasn’t a reason to get one other than I was 50 and it was recommended I get one at 50.”

Two months before her 51st birthday, a colonoscopy revealed she had cancer.

“I probably had colon cancer for years before I went for a screening,” she says, “but without the screening, I may have found out too late.”

#ColonCancerACC Chat on 3/20

Colon cancer is often beatable when detected and treated in its early stages. Colon cancer van even be prevented altogether when polyps are removed before they develop into cancer.

Join Penn Medicine and the Abramson Cancer Center for a Twitter chat on Thursday, March 20 from Noon to 1 pm ET, #ColonCancerACC as we discuss colon cancer, prevention, and the factors that increase your risk.

Our panelists will include:

• Timothy C. Hoops, MD, Director, Gastrointestinal Cancer Risk Evaluation Program at the Abramson Cancer Center
• Gregory G. Ginsberg, MD, Director Endoscopic Services at Penn Medicine
• Ursina Teitelbaum, MD, Medical Oncologist specializing in GI cancer at the Abramson Cancer Center
• Skandan Shanmugan, MD, Colon and Rectal Surgeon specializing in minimally invasive surgery for benign and malignant disease

Save the Date

Mark your calendars, pack your lunch. We’ll be sharing important information that could save your life.

Spread the Word

Helping someone learn the importance of regular colonoscopies can save a life. Share one of the images in this blog post, post a message on your Facebook timeline, or share a tweet.

Facebook post

Are you at risk?

Join @PennMedicine and nationally recognized experts from @PennCancer for a Twitter chat Thursday, 3/20 from Noon to 1 pm ET when we will discuss what you need to know about colon cancer.

Share with a friend/parent/family member/loved one – it’s info you don’t want to miss.

Tweet

Knowing risk and prevention can save your life. Join @PennMedicine @PennCancer for #ColonCancerACC chat 3/20 at Noon ET.