Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month: Screening and Advances in Robotic Colon Surgery

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, an important reminder that colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable — and most treatable — cancers when detected early.

At Adventist Health Simi Valley, patients have access to advanced colorectal care close to home through our experienced general surgery team and robotic surgery program.

“Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when caught early through appropriate screening,” says Dr. Lauren Poliakin, general surgeon at Adventist Health Simi Valley. “When surgery is needed, robotic technology allows us to perform precise, minimally invasive colon resections that support faster recovery while maintaining excellent cancer outcomes. Our goal is to offer patients safe, advanced surgical care close to home.”

What Patients Should Know About Screening

Colorectal cancer often develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, which is why routine screening is so important.

Key facts:

• Screening begins at age 45 for individuals at average risk.
• Colonoscopy can help prevent cancer by detecting and removing precancerous polyps.
• When detected early, colorectal cancer is highly treatable.
• Many patients experience no symptoms early on, making screening essential.

Take the First Step: Get Screened

Colorectal cancer screening saves lives. If you are 45 or older, or have a family history of colorectal cancer, talk with your healthcare provider about getting screened.

Early detection and timely treatment can make a life-saving difference.

And if screening reveals polyps, abnormalities, or early signs of cancer, having access to experienced specialists and advanced treatment options matters. At Adventist Health Simi Valley, patients who need surgery can receive expert care using leading minimally invasive techniques designed to treat cancer effectively while supporting a smoother recovery.

Benefits of Robotic Colon Surgery

Robotic-assisted surgery allows surgeons to perform colon procedures with enhanced precision through smaller incisions. Potential benefits include:

• Minimally invasive approach
• Enhanced surgical precision
• Lower conversion rates to open surgery in complex cases
• Faster recovery and shorter hospital stays
• Effective long-term cancer treatment outcomes

Advanced Surgical Care Close to Home

Adventist Health Simi Valley is proud to have a highly skilled general surgery team serving the community:

• Dr. Lauren Poliakin — Recognized as Best Surgeon in Ventura County in 2025, known for her expertise in minimally invasive surgery
• Dr. Andrea Pakula — Medical Director of the hospital’s robotic surgery program, helping advance innovative surgical care
• Dr. Andrew Luckey — General surgeon and Associate Chief Medical Officer, supporting clinical excellence across the hospital:

Learn More

This Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, don’t put off the care that could protect your health. Whether you need routine screening, follow-up after an abnormal finding, or more information about treatment options, Adventist Health Simi Valley is here to help.

Talk with your primary care provider or schedule a visit with one of our primary care physicians at Adventist Health Simi Valley to learn more about colorectal cancer screening and advanced treatment options.