Health fairs: An avenue for colon health promotion in the community.

Colon cancer is the number two cause of cancer deaths in both men and women in the United States. Colon cancer is 90% treatable if diagnosed early, yet only 41% of Americans over age 50 who should be screened have been. Two of the reasons why so many people are not screened include the lack of public awareness about colorectal cancer and the need for regular screening, and the lack of social support for discussion of the "disease down there." GI nurses can use hospital, community, and university health fairs as an opportunity to educate their communities on the prevention of and screening for colon cancer. Suggestions are given on how to: be included in a health fair, set up the booth, obtain information to distribute, develop a display of educational materials, "hook" the audience, and educate attendees on a cancer prevention diet and exercise program. The American Cancer Society Screening Guidelines and factors that increase colon cancer risk are listed. A colon cancer screening questionnaire is included for attendees to take home, complete, and discuss with their private physicians. A health fair is presented as a fun way to promote the prevention of and screening for colon cancer.