Dana Hayden MD

Healthy Bottom Line MD | Colon Cancer & Digestive Health

Health EN ↓ 5 episodes

Healthy Bottom Line MD is a weekly podcast about colon cancer screening, digestive health, colorectal surgery, and prevention. Hosted by Dr. Dana Hayden, MD, MPH, FACS, FASCRS — colorectal surgeon and Professor of Surgery — each episode delivers clear, evidence-based conversations about colonoscopy, stool-based testing, rectal bleeding, leakage, changing bowel habits, and what common colorectal symptoms really mean. From “Do I really need a colonoscopy?” to understanding screening guidelines and early warning signs, Dr. Hayden breaks down complex medical topics into straightforward decisions

Author

Dana Hayden MD

Episodes

It's in the bag...What is a colostomy? 01.04.2026 12:53

“Poop… in a bag?” It’s one of the most misunderstood topics in medicine—and one that can dramatically improve (and even save) lives. In this episode of Healthy Bottom Line , Dana Hayden explains what a colostomy (ostomy) actually is, why it’s performed, and what patients can realistically expect before and after surgery. You’ll get a clear, no-nonsense breakdown of: What an ostomy is and how it wo...

Cologuard vs Colonoscopy: Understanding Your Colon Cancer Screening Options 08.03.2026 8:12

In this episode of Healthy Bottom Line MD , Dr. Dana Hayden explains the fundamentals of colorectal cancer screening — what screening actually means, why it matters, and how to decide which test is right for you. You’ll learn: • What colon polyps are and how they relate to cancer • The differences between stool-based tests like FIT and Cologuard • The role of blood tests and virtual colonoscopy •...

Hemorrhoids…friend or foe? 01.03.2026 9:26

Hemorrhoids… friend or foe? Most people think of hemorrhoids as something painful or embarrassing — but what if they’re actually a normal and helpful part of your body? In this episode of Healthy Bottom Line MD, Dr. Dana Hayden explains what hemorrhoids really are, why we’re all born with them, and when they become problematic. You’ll learn the difference between internal and external hemorrhoids,...

What to Expect When You're Expecting....A Colonoscopy 23.02.2026 8:36

Colonoscopy anxiety is common — but uncertainty doesn’t have to be. In this episode of Healthy Bottom Line MD , Dr. Dana Hayden walks you step-by-step through what actually happens before, during, and after a colonoscopy. From scheduling and bowel prep to sedation, recovery, and understanding your results, this is a straightforward guide to removing the mystery from the process. You’ll learn: How...

Why Did Dawson Get Colon Cancer? 20.02.2026 2:28

n this episode, I discuss the alarming rise of colorectal cancer (colon and rectal cancer) in people under 50 and why screening can literally save lives by catching it early. The tragic losses of Chadwick Boseman (diagnosed at 39, passed in 2020) and James Van Der Beek (diagnosed in 2023 at age 46, passed in 2026 at 48) highlight a growing and concerning trend: early-onset colorectal cancer is on...