Book Ahead

Quebecers hoping to be screened for colon cancer are facing up to a year-long wait for diagnostic tests that could save their lives.

That's unacceptable, Barry Stein, head of the Colorectal Cancer Association of Canada, said yesterday.

"You can't just walk in the door and get a colonoscopy. Why? Not enough (specialists), not enough equipment," Stein said.

Quebecers aren't alone. Canadians attempting to follow their family doctor's advice to get a colonoscopy at age 50 are having trouble booking a specialist.

Make a note of things to do on your 49th birthday. Call ahead for a colonoscopy . . .