Colorectal Cancer screenings save lives!

FIT Kit Tutorial -Towa

FIT Kit Tutorial -English

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, dedicated to raising awareness about one of the most common cancers affecting both men and women worldwide. This month provides an opportunity to inform, educate, and inspire individuals to take proactive steps toward prevention and early diagnosis. In this blog, we will explore preventative measures, screening recommendations, and share videos that emphasize the importance of awareness and action in the fight against colorectal cancer.

Let’s unite this March to spread knowledge and save lives! 

What is Colorectal Cancer?  

Colorectal cancer refers to cancer that develops in the colon or rectum. It is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States and is the third most common type of cancer among both men and women. Colorectal cancer typically develops slowly over several years, and many individuals may not experience symptoms until the later stages of the disease. This highlights the importance of regular screening for colon and rectal cancer. 

Adults between the ages of 45 and 75 should undergo screening for colorectal cancer. Starting regular screenings at age 45 is crucial for detecting abnormalities in the colon and removing them before they can develop into cancer. When colorectal cancer is identified in its early stages, before it has spread, survival rates can be as high as 90%. Below are the various types of screenings available for colorectal cancer: 

• Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) 

• Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) 

  • The FOBT and FIT are stool sample tests done every year and in the privacy of your home. After completion, the stool test kit can be taken to the doctor’s office or clinic. 

• Sigmoidoscopy 

  • A Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic test used to check the sigmoid colon, which is the lower part of the colon or large intestine. 

• Colonoscopy 

  • A colonoscopy is a screening test recommended every ten years. This procedure can detect precancerous polyps, which are abnormal growths in the colon or rectum, allowing them to be removed before they develop into cancer. Additionally, screening helps identify colorectal cancer at an early stage, when treatment is most effective. 

    
    

FIT kits are available at the Jemez Public Health Office.

For more information and a step-by-step tutorial on how to complete a FIT kit, please watch the video below. If you are due for a screening and would like to receive an at-home test kit, call (575) 834-7207 and ask to speak with a member of the Colorectal Health team. 

Consult your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate test for you. If you are aged 45 to 75, schedule your screening immediately. 

“Making Jemez a healthier place to live.”