St. Mary’s Hosts “Strollin’ Through the Colon” to Raise Awareness About Colon Cancer Screenings
St. Mary’s Health System recently hosted a unique and educational event called Strollin’ Through the Colon to raise awareness about the importance of colorectal cancer screenings. Held on campus in Lewiston, the interactive experience gave community members a chance to walk through a giant inflatable colon and learn about colon health in a visual, hands-on way.
The event was part of a broader effort to encourage early detection and prevention of colon cancer, which remains one of the most common and treatable cancers when caught early. St. Mary’s providers and care teams were on site to answer questions, share resources and help connect participants with screening options.
“Events like this help make a serious topic more approachable,” said Ben Sullivan, system director of integrated communications. “By showing people what’s happening inside the body and how screening can prevent cancer, we’re breaking down barriers and encouraging lifesaving conversations.”
Participants walked through the larger-than-life colon exhibit, which featured examples of polyps, inflammation and early-stage cancer. Educational handouts, giveaways and opportunities to schedule a screening rounded out the experience.
Why colon cancer screenings matter
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Colorectal cancer often has no symptoms in early stages
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Screenings like colonoscopies can detect problems before they become cancer
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Adults at average risk should begin screening at age 45
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Early detection greatly improves treatment outcomes
Strollin’ Through the Colon is just one of many ways St. Mary’s Health System is working to support community health through education and prevention. With a team of dedicated providers and a focus on early detection, St. Mary’s encourages everyone to talk with their primary care provider about when to begin screening.
To learn more about colon cancer screenings or to schedule an appointment, visit https://stmarysmaine.com/services/endoscopy/
