(April 16, 2008) Pleasanton, Texas –Colon Cancer has the second highest mortality rate among all cancers, and is currently the third highest cancer to be diagnosed each year. These statistics are alarming, but a group of members from South Texas Regional Medical Center's Healthy Woman Program are now more at ease thanks to a recent opportunity to learn more about this disease.

On Wednesday, April 9th, Ravi Ganeshappa, M.D., led an educational discussion regarding prevention and treatment methods available for those at risk for Colon Cancer at the Healthy Woman Center in Pleasanton.

Dr. Ganeshappa spoke in detail about the most commonly used screening methods for cancer detection. Among those named, a colonoscopy was referred to as the most effective of all screenings. Dr. Ganeshappa continued to describe the preparation time required for each alternative method, the level of discomfort that may be experienced, and whether or not sedatives are administered for that particular exam.

Members also learned how distinctions are made between pre-cancerous and cancerous polyps, the techniques used to remove those growths, and the recommend age to begin testing.

Our community is fortunate to have programs which provide accessibility to specialists such as Ravi Ganeshappa, M.D., specialist in Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology. If you have questions about a colonoscopy or would like additional information about the procedure, contact your family physician.

Schedule a visit with Ravi Ganeshappa, M.D., by calling (830) 769-5259. Dr. Ganeshappa holds office visits in the Steinle Medical Building (located within South Texas Regional Medical Center) on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays for two weeks out of the month. The alternating two weeks are attended by K.P. Ganeshappa, M.D., also specialist in Gastroenterology.