When many years ago my doctor first mentioned getting a colonoscopy, I almost ran from his office in panic. But that was then, and after many of those exams later, I am so grateful to him for getting me on a schedule for a regular colonoscopy.

Over the years a few benign polyps were discovered and removed. Had I not received the colonoscopy, those polyps would most likely have developed into colon cancer - often known as the "silent killer" since by the time there are physical symptoms, the cancer has become too severe.

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and all of us - especially those 50 years or older, or anyone with a history of colon cancer in their family - need to have a regular colonoscopy. Colorectal cancer is the number 2 killer in the United States, and the American Cancer Society estimates 148,810 new cases will be reported this year. Sadly, almost 50,000 people will die from colon cancer this same year.

Yet, colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer, and when detected early, quite curable. The incidence is about equal in men and women, and is more common after age 50.

A colonoscopy has the ability to locate problems early on, and remove polyps - thus preventing them from possibly becoming cancerous.

I urge all of you to join me in this extremely effective means of cancer prevention. Help protect yourself and your family from colorectal cancer. Ask your doctor to help arrange for your regular colonoscopy.

Additional information is available in English and Spanish from the American Cancer Society website, www.cancer.org, or by calling the Society at 1-800-227-2345.