Coinciding with National Colon Cancer Awareness Month, Houston Methodist West Hospital is hosting a seminar this month to educate the West Houston and Katy communities about this common, but preventable disease.

Join Dr. Rachel J. Ellsworth, colorectal surgeon to learn more about colorectal screenings, myths and truths and receive a free at-home screening kit. The seminar will be held on Tuesday, March 28 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the Mesquite Conference Room at Houston Methodist West Hospital on 18500 Katy Frwy.

Here are some fast facts about colon cancer:
  • Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S.
  • The average lifetime risk is 1 in 20 of developing colon cancer
  • About 90 percent of new cases occur in patients 50 or older
  • Patients with parents or siblings with colon cancer have two to three times increased risk of developing the disease
  • There are currently more than one million colon cancer survivors in the U.S.

Colon cancer is highly preventable through regular screenings. Houston Methodist West Hospital is committed to providing preventive screenings, and when needed, the most advanced treatment for cancer and other diseases.

To register for the colorectal cancer awareness event, visit houstonmethodist.org/events or call 832.522.5522. Registration is required and seats are limited.