Free community program aimed at tackling digestive troubles

Among cancers that affect both men and women, colorectal cancer (cancer of the colon or rectum) is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. Every year, more than 140,000 Americans are diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and more than 50,000 people die from it.

The risk of getting colorectal cancer increases with age. More than 90 percent of cases occur in people who are 50 years old or older. Colorectal cancer screening saves lives, but many people are not being screened according to national guidelines.

Whether an individual follows a healthy diet, or eats a little too much junk food, we all have occasional (and sometimes chronic) digestive disorders. St. Luke's LiveWell is holding an upcoming free community event to educate individuals about causes and treatments for common digestive symptoms like diarrhea, constipation, gas and nausea. We'll also cover the pros and cons of probiotics and review risk factors and ways to decrease colorectal cancer risks.

Tackling tummy troubles

Thursday, March 22  at 6:30 p.m. 

St. Luke's Hospital, 3rd Floor Nassif Heart Center

Free, please register at stlukescr.org/livewell or call 319/369-8068.