Mask up,
Cobb Not just for
superheroes
Not all superheroes wear capes,
but these days, they all mask up.
If you wear a mask, you can have the special
power to save lives, too (plus, the cool ability to go
undercover at the grocery store). And, while you
may not be hiding a secret identity under your
face covering, Wellstar recognizes you for being a
hero and protecting the health and safety of
every Georgian.
As Wellstar begins working to get the COVID-19
vaccine out to our community, it’s important we
all continue to do our part to keep everyone safe.
That means wearing a mask, washing your hands
and watching your distance around others.
Together, let’s mask up and take COVID-19 down.
wellstar.org/makewellhappen
Conquering Colon
Cancer with Wellstar
Colon cancer is the third most common cancer in
the United States, excluding skin cancers. And while
the rate of people diagnosed with colon or rectal
cancer each year has been steadily declining since the
mid-1980s — largely due to people taking charge of
their health and getting screened — rates are rising
in younger adults.
Dr. Arif Aziz, chief of Wellstar’s digestive health
service line, recommends patients be mindful of their
colon health, even if they don’t think it is a concern
for them yet.
“Nobody looks forward to cancer screenings,
especially colonoscopies, but the health benefits far
Dr. Arif Aziz
outweigh any inconvenience or discomfort you might experience,” Dr. Aziz said. “It is
best to detect colon cancer early, because in its early stages it is curable.”
It’s never too early to conquer colon cancer before it happens, but if you are
diagnosed, Wellstar’s team of expert specialists will be right by your side.
Assess your risk
• Know your family history. About 5 to 10% of colon cancer cases are hereditary.
If one of your parents, siblings or children has been diagnosed, you are at an
increased risk, too. The risk is higher if that relative was diagnosed when they
were younger than 50, or if more than one relative has had colorectal cancer.
• Other factors can affect your colorectal cancer risk. People with diabetes,
inflammatory bowel disease or obesity are at a higher risk of developing colon
cancer. Smoking and heavy alcohol use are also risk factors.
Stop cancer early
• Prevent cancer from forming. Screenings for colon cancer can identify
precancerous colon polyps, or clumps of cells that form on the sides of your colon
lining. Removing polyps early can stop them from developing into cancer.
• Be proactive. The American Cancer Society recommends that people start
colorectal cancer screenings every 10 years beginning at age 50. People with a
family history may need to start getting screened when they are younger.
• Make healthy lifestyle choices. Get at least 30 minutes of physical activity five
or more days a week to reduce your risk, and swap red meat for other options such
as chicken, fish or nuts.
• Know the signs. In addition to regular screenings, you should watch out for
symptoms that could point to colon cancer, such as a change in bowel habits,
bloody stool, abdominal pain and unintended weight loss. If you notice these
signs, see your Wellstar provider right away so they can find the cause and start
treatment.
Colon cancer care at Wellstar
• Talk to your provider. A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, but your
Wellstar care team will help you navigate all your options and make the choice
right for you, whether that is surgery, chemotherapy or medication.
• Work with a team of experts. Wellstar is armed with specialists in oncology,
surgery, radiation oncology, radiology and pathology — all ready to get to know
you and keep you healthy.
• Keep your care going. Wellstar’s team will be there for you, even after you’re
cancer-free. Our ongoing care programs help you focus on what you can do to
prevent your cancer from coming back.
/makewellhappen