Dr Oz: Colon Cancer Awareness
According to Dr Oz, Katie Couric changed the way we screen for colon cancer after undergoing a live colonoscopy on The Today Show. Katie explained that she wanted to bring things out in the open because people were too timid to even talk about colon cancer or colonoscopies. She didn’t want people to be left saying “if only” like she was when her husband died of colon cancer at age 42. She wanted to show that it wasn’t that bad so everyone should do it.
Katie shared that colon cancer is 90% preventable with early detection. She knew she needed to use her position to promote awareness, even if she had a little fun with it, because the message was “critically important” to get out there.

Katie Couric joined Dr Oz to talk about her live colonoscopy and to raise awareness about colon cancer. (ellasportfolio / Flickr)
Dr Oz then took Katie on a virtual trip through her own colon. During a colonoscopy, polyps are clipped to prevent future cancer as well as to remove possible cancerous lumps that are already there.
Dr Oz: A Closer Look At The Colon
Dr Oz then gave Katie an opportunity to hold a real colon, which she was a little uneasy about. But despite being a little squeamish, she was mesmerized by the real organ in front of her. Katie made a point to say that if you experience a lot of bloating, weight loss, and changes in your poop, especially if you’re over the age of 50, you’ll want to talk to your doctor. Colon cancer is preventable with regular screening and early detection. It’s most important to listen to your body.
It’s important to look at the shape of your poop. If your poop looks like a period or a comma or is too thin, it could be a sign that something isn’t quite right! It doesn’t automatically mean you could have cancer, but it’s worth having a conversation with your doctor.
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