Daviess Community Hospital recognizes Dress in Blue Day, encourages colorectal cancer screening

Staff across the Daviess Community Hospital health system wore blue Friday and gathered in the hospital lobby for a group photo in recognition of Dress in Blue Day, a national initiative held each March during Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month to raise awareness about colorectal cancer and the importance of screening.

Dress in Blue Day is organized by the Colorectal Cancer Alliance and encourages individuals, organizations and communities to wear blue to honor those affected by colorectal cancer and to help spread awareness about prevention and early detection.

According to national health data, colorectal cancer remains one of the most common cancers diagnosed in the United States. Health experts emphasize that routine screening is one of the most effective ways to prevent colorectal cancer or detect it early when treatment is most successful.

Dr. Marcus Kurucz, a general surgeon with Daviess Community Hospital’s Washington Surgical Associates in Washington, Indiana, said regular screening plays a critical role in protecting long-term health.

“Colorectal cancer often develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, which is why screening is so important,” Kurucz said. “For many people, a colonoscopy can detect precancerous polyps before they become cancer or identify cancer early when it is highly treatable. Screening truly saves lives.”

Most adults at average risk are encouraged to begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45. Individuals with certain risk factors or family history may need to begin screening earlier, according to their healthcare provider’s recommendation.

At Daviess Community Hospital, colonoscopies and other gastrointestinal procedures such as endoscopy are performed by experienced physicians using advanced technology in a patient-centered environment focused on safety, comfort and high-quality outcomes.

Kurucz said one of the most important steps people can take for their health is simply scheduling their screening.

“Many people delay screening because they feel healthy or are unsure about the process,” Kurucz said. “But colorectal cancer is often preventable when we find and remove precancerous polyps early. My team and I are here to guide patients through the process and provide the care they need with compassion and expertise.”

Community members age 45 and older are encouraged to talk with their healthcare provider about colorectal cancer screening.

To schedule a colonoscopy, gastrointestinal screening, endoscopy, or surgical consultation with Dr. Marcus Kurucz at Daviess Community Hospital’s Washington Surgical Associates in Washington, Indiana, call 812-254-8856.