Making screening visible
In March 2000, Katie Couric’s Today Show awareness campaign included her colonoscopy. Her public conversation followed the death of her husband, Jay Monahan, from colon cancer.
What researchers observed
A study published July 14, 2003, in Archives of Internal Medicine examined colonoscopy use around the campaign. Researchers found an increase temporally associated with it in two datasets. That finding is an association; it does not mean a single broadcast explains every person’s decision to be screened.
A conversation you can have, too
You do not need a public platform to make this topic easier to discuss. Ask a relative whether there is a family history you should know about. Ask a clinician which screening options fit your circumstances. Share a useful guide with someone who has been putting the conversation off.