Benton County, Iowa, touts the lowest colorectal cancer incidence rate in the state, which Vinton Today attributed to the efforts of Vinton, Iowa-based Virginia Gay Hospital.
Here's what you should know:
1. Iowa has the fifth highest rates of CRC-related incidence and death in the nation. However, Benton County touts the lowest CRC incidence rate in the state and lower incidence rates for all types of cancer compared to other counties.
2. The hospital integrated colonoscopy services into primary care, which is what Brian Meeker, DO, said contributed to the decline.
3. "We've made this a priority for 25 years,” Dr. Meeker said, “and our data shows that our record of safety is much better than the national average and that we are extremely effective in finding the polyps that eventually cause colon cancer. Now, we know we've helped achieve the lowest incidence of colorectal cancer in Iowa because of everyone’s hard work over such a long period."
4. The hospital's team-based approach also helps, Dr. Meeker said. He said physicians often reach out for other opinions if they have any doubt. "See something, say something is the motto," Dr. Meeker said.
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