Perry County Memorial Hospital | Health Scene | Spring 2017

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from ever developing.
w wScreening tests can also find colon can-
cer early, before it causes symptoms. And
that’s when treatment works best.
You have choices
Different tests can screen for polyps or
colon cancer. A colonoscopy—the most
accurate test—examines the rectum and
entire colon for polyps or cancer. A similar
test, called a flexible sigmoidoscopy,
examines the rectum and lower third of
the colon. Alternatively, you can do a stool
test at home, using a test kit from your
doctor.
Be sure to talk with your doctor about
which test is right for you—and when to
start screening. People with a higher risk of
colon cancer may need to start testing before
age 50. Several different things might raise
your risk, including a family history of the
disease or precancerous polyps.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Take a hike...or a walk...or a bike ride. Just do something to
get your heart pumping. Staying active helps control weight,
blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol. It can also lower
stress and raise energy levels, and it can help you sleep better.
Start slowly if you haven’t been active in a while, and gradu-
ally increase your activity level. The goal is to do at least two and
a half hours of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, like brisk
walking, each week. Supplement that with muscle-strengthening
exercise two days a week.
If you have a chronic health condition, such as arthritis,
diabetes or heart disease, be sure to talk with your doctor before
you begin exercising.
Aging is something to celebrate, and doing
it in good health is something to plan for.
Go to to learn more about
screening tests.
Sources: American Heart Association; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Mental Health America; National Institutes of Health
Tune in to your emotions. Physical health
is just one aspect of wellness. Emotional
health is another. As you grow older, you
may experience isolation and depression. Try
to maintain ties to family and friends and to
do things you enjoy. If you need help manag-
ing your mood, speak with your doctor.
Be seen—and screened.
Regular doctor visits can be
invaluable in your efforts to stay
well. Now is when screening tests
become particularly important. In
fact, there are some tests, mam-
mograms, for example, that may
have been best to start years ago.
However, if you haven’t been
vigilant about screenings, it’s not
too late. Work with your doctor
to tailor a screening plan that’s
best for you.
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Check out Dr. Steele’s
Health Beat Video to learn
more about colon cancer
at morehealth.org/
coloncancer .