Early Detection Could Save Your Life: The Importance of Colon Cancer Prevention and Screenings
Tuesday, May 19, 2026 | 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Surgical Clinics is hosting a free virtual “Meet the Doctor” event on Tuesday, May 19, from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m., focused on colon cancer prevention and screening.
The presentation will be led by Dr. Lexine Yurcho, a board-certified general and colorectal surgeon with Cottage Surgical Clinics.
Colon cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers when detected early. During this session, Dr. Yurcho will discuss the importance of screening and what individuals need to know to protect their health.
Participants will learn about:
• When to begin screening and why guidelines now recommend starting earlier
• Symptoms and warning signs that should not be ignored
• Risk factors, including family history
• Prevention strategies and available treatment options
• The differences between colonoscopy and at-home screening tests
The event will also feature a Q&A session, providing participants the opportunity to have their questions answered directly by Dr. Yurcho in a confidential setting.
To register for this free virtual event, go to cottagehealth.org/surgicalMTD
About Cottage Health | CottageHealth.org — Cottage Health is a not-for-profit health system providing advanced medical care on California’s Central Coast. In the past year, its hospitals in Goleta, Santa Barbara and Santa Ynez Valley cared for 20,833 inpatient admissions, 93,281 emergency department visits and 1,971 newborn deliveries. With more than 700 physicians, including specialists typically found only at university medical centers, Cottage offers expert, comprehensive care. As a teaching institution, it trains physicians through residency programs in medical, surgical, pediatric and radiology specialties. Cottage Health is home to the Central Coast’s only Level I adult and Level II pediatric trauma center and an advanced comprehensive stroke center. Its specialty services include Cottage Children’s Medical Center, Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital, the Santa Barbara Neuroscience Institute, Cottage Heart & Vascular Center and Cottage Center for Orthopedics. Beyond its hospitals, Cottage expands care through primary and specialty clinics, urgent care centers and 24/7 provider access via Cottage Virtual Care.