June is Men’s Health Month, a nationwide effort to encourage men to prioritize their well-being through preventive care. At Southern Tennessee Regional Health System (STRHS) Pulaski, we’re proud to support this initiative by highlighting one of the most effective tools available to detect—and prevent—colorectal cancer: the colonoscopy.

Too often, men delay routine checkups and screenings. But when it comes to colorectal cancer, early detection can save your life. A colonoscopy isn’t just another test—it’s the gold standard in screening and prevention. Unlike other options, such as stool-based tests, colonoscopy is the only tool that allows doctors to both detect and remove potentially cancerous polyps during a single procedure.

Colonoscopy: A Simple Test That Saves Lives

Colorectal cancer is not only the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in men—it’s the second leading cause of cancer death in both men and women. The good news? More than half of these deaths could be prevented with routine screening.

Colonoscopy is a proven, safe, and powerful tool that allows physicians to carefully examine the colon and rectum for any signs of trouble. When polyps are found during the exam, they can be removed on the spot—stopping cancer before it has the chance to start.

National guidelines recommend that people of average risk begin screening at age 45. However, individuals at higher risk—including those with a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, hereditary syndromes, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or prior abdominal radiation—may need to start earlier and screen more frequently. Your doctor can help determine which category you’re in and build a screening plan that fits your needs.

Expert, Compassionate Care- Close to Home

At STRHS Pulaski, we are committed to providing expert, compassionate care right here in your community. Our General Surgery team, in partnership with Columbia Surgical Partners, offers high-quality colonoscopy and upper endoscopy services with a personal touch. This unique collaboration gives our patients access to experienced, board-certified general surgeons who are trained in a wide range of gastrointestinal procedures—from routine colonoscopies to complex colectomies.

Whether it’s your first screening or a return visit, we are here to guide you every step of the way. Colonoscopy is a quick, outpatient procedure that typically takes 30–60 minutes, and most patients go home the same day with minimal recovery time.

Take Control of Your Health This Month

Men’s Health Month is the perfect time to take action. If you or a loved one is 45 or older, talk to your primary care provider about scheduling a colonoscopy. If you don’t have a provider, we’re here to help connect you with the right care team.

By taking this step, you're not only investing in your health—you’re also setting a powerful example for your family, friends, and community.

STRHS Pulaski and Columbia Surgical Partners—Working together to deliver exceptional care and a healthier tomorrow for the men in our region.

Need help scheduling? Visit SouthernTennesseeMedicalGroup.com or call 1-800-424-DOCS (3627) to learn more.