By Dr. Jenny Lessner, TCC Physician
Let’s talk about something we all have in common… poop. Yep. Butts, bowels, bathroom habits—the whole glamorous package. If you’re already cringing, stay with me, because this conversation can literally save lives.
Colon cancer is cancer of the large intestine (also called the colon). Your colon is about 6 feet long, and its job is to take the food you eat, absorb what your body needs, and turn the rest into—you guessed it—poop. The rectum is the last 8–10 inches of the colon, and it’s the last stop before poop exits the body through the anus. Not exactly captivating, but very important.
Sometimes small growths called polyps form in the colon or rectum. Most polyps are harmless, but some can turn into cancer over time. The good news? During a colonoscopy, we find and remove polyps before they become cancer. That’s prevention in action.
And here’s the most important message of all: Colon cancer is very preventable and very treatable when caught early.
For all Alaska Native men and women, regular colon cancer screening should begin at age 40. You may have a higher risk of colon cancer if someone in your family has had colon cancer or polyps—so it’s important to talk with your relatives, learn your family history, and then make sure your healthcare provider knows it.
Now, I get it. Talking about poop and butts can feel awkward. We’re taught from a young age that bathroom talk is… well, private. But I promise you, as doctors, we talk about poop every single day. It’s truly no big deal for us—and I would much rather talk about poop all day long than miss or delay one single diagnosis of a cancer.
If it helps, bring this article to your next appointment—on your phone or in print—and use it as your reminder to ask, “Am I due for colon cancer screening?” Ask your family and friends if they’ve been screened. Let’s make this a normal, everyday part of staying healthy—like brushing your teeth, drinking water, or going for a walk.
So yes, we’re talking about butts. And yes, we’re talking about poop. But what we’re really talking about is prevention, early diagnosis, and saving lives.
Colon cancer is preventable.
Colon cancer is treatable.
Colon cancer is beatable.
Let’s talk about it—and then let’s prevent it.