Dr. John Oertle Discusses Colorectal Cancer Detection, Prevention, and Recovery with a Survivor from Envita Medical Centers on AZFamily

Over 50,000 people in the United States die each year due to colorectal cancer, but regular screenings, early detection, and precision oncology treatments, have the potential to transform these statistics. “I was one of those statistics a long time ago, but there is life after cancer,” said Sandy Yozipovic, a stage 4 colorectal cancer survivor, who has been living cancer free for the past 24 years after being treated at Envita Medical Centers.

Speaking in recognition of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, Sandy encouraged Americans to be their own health advocates, watch for symptoms, and seek optimal treatment options. She was diagnosed at the age of 39 and was given only a 20 percent chance of surviving beyond a year, but she refused to succumb to the dismal prognosis and sought alternative options, which led her to Envita. “We've got some great results and Sandy's one of them,” said Dr. John Oertle, Chief Medical Director, Envita Medical Centers.

Dr. Oertle explained that his team of specially trained physicians follow an innovative precision integrative oncology approach, which is designed to target not just cancer, but its core causative factors as well, while rebuilding the patient's immune system. This comprehensive and targeted approach is pivotal in transforming outcomes for patients like Sandy. “If you do have it, don't let it be a death sentence, there is life after cancer,” added Dr. Oertle.

Expressing concern about the increasing incidence of colorectal cancer in the younger population, Dr. Oertle said that regular screenings and early detection are key to improving outcomes. To learn more about the risk factors for colorectal cancer and tips for prevention, watch this news bulletin.