Salinas Valley Health Hosts Free Colon Cancer Screening Event

Salinas Valley Health held a successful free community colon cancer screening event, raising awareness and promoting early detection of a highly treatable cancer when caught early. The event at the Medical Center promoted the power of screening and prevention while also eliminating barriers many face accessing health care services.

“We are passionate about making high-quality, healthcare accessible to everyone,” said Dr. Orlando Rodriguez, Salinas Valley Health Chief Medical Officer Ambulatory Services and Mobile Clinic Medical Director. “Colon cancer is highly treatable when detected early, and understanding your family history is critical. Our team shared valuable knowledge and were able to provide tests and referrals to address the needs of high risk individuals.”

The Susan Bacon Cancer Resource Center at Salinas Valley Health partnered with the Salinas Valley Health Mobile Clinic for the colon cancer screening event. Providers, bilingual staff, and community partners came together to encourage anyone age 45 and older to get screened as well as those with a family history of cancer or symptoms.

“This event truly showcases our engagement with our community on the power of prevention,” said Jessica Valero, BSN, RN, OCN, Manager of the Susan Bacon Cancer Resource Center. “It’s rewarding to bring so many resources together for a free community event. The response has been overwhelming and motivates us to plan for another event to reach even more people.” 

Attendees had the opportunity to speak with experts about risk factors, prevention, and available resources. Representatives from Myriad Lab, Cologuard, and Guardant Health were also on-site to share information and answer questions about screening options.

“Early screening is so important,” said Sue Marscellas, who has a family history of colon cancer. “My mother died from colon cancer so it is very real for me. I appreciate that the hospital made this available for free.”

Mobile Health Clinic provider Celina Medina, NP, Family Nurse Practitioner was able to talk with attendees in a private setting, review their family history and advise on next steps of an at home test such as Cologuard or a referral for a colonoscopy. 

“It’s gratifying to serve people who might not otherwise have access to this type of cancer screening,” said Medina. “Sometimes it difficult for families to even talk about the subject and this not only opens the door to a conversation about family history, it leads to the next steps that can saves lives.”

For more information about upcoming community health events and resources, visit SalinasValleyHealth.com.

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Media Contact: Karina Rusk
831-759-1843