When detected and treated in the earliest stage, colon cancer patients have a 90 percent chance of survival. Louisiana Endoscopy Center is participating in a national effort to screen 1,000 first-time patients for colon cancer during National Colon Cancer Screening Day on Thursday, March 8.

Aligned with Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, the campaign hopes to motivate first-time patients to complete or schedule a colonoscopy on March 8. For those 50 years of age and older (45 years of age and older for African Americans) or for those who have a family history of polyps or colon cancer – there is no better test, no better time to help in the fight against cancer.

“Almost 40 percent of Americans at risk for colon cancer are not getting screened,” said Dr. Robert Be of Louisiana Endoscopy Center. “By designating a national screening day, we hope to raise awareness among first-time patients and break down the barriers associated with the procedure. It’s an easy call to make and the message is clear; a colonoscopy can save your life.”

Colonoscopy is the most effective method of screening for colon cancer.

Westside Lemonators is hosting a fundraising event to benefit Relay for Life. As part of the event, Hardeman Tradition will be performing for four hours. Come hear the songs of Wayne Toups, Kenny Fife, Foret Tradition, and other styles of Swamp Pop.

The fundraiser will be held on Saturday, Feb. 4 at 6 p.m. at the Brusly Lions Den, East St. Francis Street. Admission is $5.

Also, Fight Dat t-shirts will be on sale for $20 or two for $30 and concessions will be available. A drawing will be held for door prizes. Tickets are $5 each. You will be eligible to win some great prize, including a football autographed by Coach Les Miles; gift cards from Ruth Chris Steakhouse, TJ Ribs, Red Lobster, Tommy's Seafood, LaFleurs;  gift baskets by Firstaid Lemonaid, Community Coffee, Raisin Cane, and pictures donated by Bellelo's Furniture and Firstaid Lemonaid.