Maria Parham Health to Host Free Lunch & Learn for Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
March 03, 2026
By Donna Young
Maria Parham Health will host a free Lunch & Learn on March 31 to help raise awareness about colorectal cancer and the importance of early screening and prevention.
The educational event will take place March 31, 2026, at noon in the John T. Church Classroom at Maria Parham Health. The event is free and includes a complimentary lunch, but registration is required as seating is limited.
Colorectal cancer — which includes cancers of the colon and rectum — is the third most common cancer diagnosed in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. Health professionals are particularly concerned about a rising number of cases among younger adults. In recent years, diagnoses have increased among people under age 50, a group historically considered to be at lower risk.
During the Lunch & Learn, Tracey D. Hight, FNP-C, MSN-Ed, RN, will discuss the risk factors and warning signs of colorectal cancer, why screening is essential — including for younger adults — as well as prevention strategies, healthy lifestyle habits and the latest screening and treatment options available.
The event is designed to provide practical, easy-to-understand information to help individuals take charge of their health and encourage loved ones to stay proactive about cancer prevention.
“The rise in colorectal cancer diagnoses among younger adults makes education and awareness more important than ever,” said Bert Beard, CEO of Maria Parham Health. “Events like this Lunch & Learn give our community an opportunity to learn about prevention, understand the importance of screening and take steps that could ultimately save lives.”
Colorectal cancer is highly preventable and treatable when detected early. Screening tests can identify precancerous polyps before they develop into cancer, and early-stage colorectal cancer often has very successful treatment outcomes.
Community members interested in attending are encouraged to register in advance due to limited seating. For more information and to register, visit MariaParham.com.