19 News’ Nichole Vrsansky recovering after colon cancer surgery, urges others to get screened
Vrsansky said a routine screening found the cancer early, even though she had no symptoms
CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO) - 19 News anchor Nichole Vrsansky is recovering at home after surgery for colon cancer and is sharing her experience to encourage others to get screened.
Vrsansky said in a Facebook post that she went in for a routine screening without any symptoms. The screening found cancer early, she said, and her surgery was successful.
“I had NO symptoms. None,” she wrote. “A routine screening found my cancer early. And that screening may have saved my life.”
Vrsansky said she has several weeks of recovery ahead but hopes to return to television soon. Her colleagues at 19 News are looking forward to seeing her back on the air soon.
A message about screening
Vrsansky encouraged people age 45 and older who have not had a colonoscopy, as well as those due for their next screening, to make an appointment.
“You don’t have to feel sick to need a screening. You don’t have to wait for symptoms,” she wrote. “So please, make the appointment. Encourage the people you love to do the same.”
Colon cancer may not cause symptoms right away, according to Cleveland Clinic. Screening can find cancer early and detect precancerous growths called polyps, which can be removed before they become cancerous.
University Hospitals says most adults should begin colonoscopies at age 45. People with a first-degree relative diagnosed with colon cancer or advanced, large polyps should begin at age 40, according to UH; a health care provider can help determine the right schedule.
Cleveland Clinic says screening for people at average risk generally continues through age 75. After that, patients should discuss whether to continue with their health care provider. People with a family history, an inherited condition that raises their risk or inflammatory bowel disease may need earlier or more frequent screening.
University Hospitals offers a comparison of screening options, including colonoscopy and stool-based tests. It says a positive stool test requires a follow-up colonoscopy to confirm or rule out cancer.
Cleveland Clinic recommends that anyone with concerning symptoms contact a health care provider, regardless of age. Symptoms can include rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, or unexplained weight loss.
Gratitude for care and support
Vrsansky thanked her family, friends and co-workers for their support, as well as her care team at Cleveland Clinic, including Dr. Scott Steele.
“Today, I am counting my blessings. I am healing. I am hopeful,” she wrote. “I am a SURVIVOR.”
“And if there’s one thing I hope you take away from my story, it’s this: PLEASE DON’T WAIT. Your life is worth the appointment.”
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