John Randolph Medical Center Offers Free Colorectal Cancer Seminars

(HOPEWELL, VA) March 6, 2008 - Colorectal cancer, commonly known as colon cancer, ranks as the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. It is preventable and treatable, with an over 90 percent survival rate if caught early enough, according to the American Cancer Society.

In recognition of March as Colon Cancer Awareness month, John Randolph Medical Center is offering two free seminars, titled “Colorectal Cancer Awareness: Preventable, Treatable, Beatable,” to educate the community about this disease. The first seminar will be held on March 19 at noon in the AB Classroom on the ground floor. Lunch will be provided.

The second seminar will be held on March 25 at 6 p.m. in the Family Life Center on the 3rd floor of the hospital. Light refreshments will be provided.

Both seminars will feature a presentation by Zahid Rashid, M.D., Gastroenterologist, Center for Gastrointestinal Health, and an optional tour of the Endoscopy Suite.

Each attendee will receive a free take-home colorectal cancer screening kit. Advance registration is required. To reserve your seat, call MedLine at 800-242-5662.

About John Randolph Medical Center
John Randolph Medical Center, a 147-bed facility located at 411 West Randolph Road in Hopewell, has served the Tri-Cities for over 90 years, providing high quality healthcare services, from oncology and cardiac care to behavioral health and emergency medicine. The facility combines a small-town atmosphere with sophisticated technology commonly found in large urban hospitals. John Randolph is part of the HCA Richmond Health System, the largest healthcare provider and largest private employer in the Richmond metropolitan area. The Cardiac Care services include noninvasive and minimally invasive diagnostics, cardiac catheterization, stress tests and a cardiac rehab program certified by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation.  Oncology Services offers individualized treatment protocols accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, outpatient infusion, chemotherapy, as well as inpatient and surgical services.  The ICU/CCU offers eICU WATCH for critical patients, a patient-monitoring system also available at HCA hospitals throughout the Richmond region. The 24-hour Emergency Room offers two distinct treatment areas – a Fast Track designed for non-emergent concerns and an acute section for more serious injury and illness.