Former NJ Assemblyman's Health Scare a Wake-Up Call on Importance of Routine Checkups

John Peter Allen's story highlights how a simple annual physical saved his life by catching a concerning polyp before it became cancer.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 2:40pm

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A translucent, ghostly X-ray image revealing the internal structure of a human colon, with a glowing, ghostly polyp visible, conceptually representing the early detection and removal of a cancerous growth.An X-ray view of a concerning polyp caught early through a routine colonoscopy, allowing for minimally invasive treatment and a full recovery.Hackensack Today

John Peter Allen, a former New Jersey assemblyman and lawyer, was diagnosed with low iron levels during a routine annual physical. Further testing revealed a concerning polyp that was removed through a minimally invasive procedure, preventing the development of colon cancer. Allen's story underscores the importance of prioritizing regular health checkups, as his early detection allowed for a quick recovery with no further treatment needed.

Why it matters

Allen's case illustrates how seemingly minor health issues can be indicators of more serious underlying conditions. By catching the polyp early through a colonoscopy prompted by his low iron levels, Allen was able to avoid a potentially life-threatening cancer diagnosis. His story serves as a wake-up call for others to stay on top of their annual physicals and not ignore potential warning signs.

The details

During his annual physical, Allen's bloodwork showed very low iron levels, which prompted his doctor to recommend a colonoscopy. The procedure revealed several polyps and bleeding, with one large polyp being especially concerning. Allen was then referred to gastroenterologist Dr. Michel Kahaleh, who performed an endoscopic mucosal resection to remove the polyp. Pathology confirmed the polyp was cancerous, but Dr. Kahaleh was able to remove it entirely during the procedure, so no further treatment was needed. Just three days after the surgery, Allen was able to resume his normal activities.

  • Allen had his annual physical in early 2026.
  • The colonoscopy that revealed the concerning polyp was performed shortly after the physical.
  • The endoscopic procedure to remove the polyp took place within a week of the colonoscopy.
  • Allen was able to travel to Greece just days after being discharged from the hospital.

The players

John Peter Allen

A former New Jersey assemblyman and lawyer who had a concerning polyp detected and removed through a routine colonoscopy.

Dr. Michel Kahaleh

A gastroenterologist at Hackensack University Medical Center who performed the endoscopic procedure to remove Allen's cancerous polyp.

Hackensack University Medical Center

The hospital where Allen received his care, including the minimally invasive endoscopic procedure to remove the polyp.

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What they’re saying

“My bloodwork came back with very low iron levels, which my doctor found concerning. He asked me how I was feeling, and I said 'I don't know, I'm a man in my 40s. I just thought I was supposed to feel like this.'”

— John Peter Allen, Former New Jersey Assemblyman

“During an endoscopic mucosal resection, we can remove the polyp without traditional surgery. It's a fairly quick procedure with no scarring, less bleeding and less chance of infection.”

— Dr. Michel Kahaleh, Gastroenterologist, Hackensack University Medical Center

“People are being diagnosed with colon cancer younger. Screenings don't start until age 45, but it's important to watch for signs of an issue, such as extreme fatigue, weight loss or low iron levels. If John didn't follow through with his recommended health appointments, his outcome could have been much worse.”

— Dr. Michel Kahaleh, Gastroenterologist, Hackensack University Medical Center

What’s next

Allen plans to continue prioritizing his annual physical and other recommended health screenings to stay proactive about his well-being.

The takeaway

Allen's story highlights the importance of being vigilant about one's health, even for busy professionals. By catching the concerning polyp early through a routine checkup, he was able to avoid a potentially devastating cancer diagnosis and make a quick recovery. His experience serves as a reminder for others to not neglect their annual physicals and to follow up on any concerning health indicators.