SAVE LIVES & GET SCREENED!

Colorectal Cancer is a term used to refer to cancer that develops in the colon or rectum. In most people, Colorectal Cancer develops slowly over a period of several years. Take a look at the graphic below to understand how colorectal cancer develops over time.

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer related deaths in the United States, and is the third most common type of cancer in both men and women. Over 140,000 new cases of Colorectal cancer are diagnosed each year. More than 50,000 people die from Colorectal cancer each year, but it doesn’t have to be. This is where colorectal screenings come in. Adults age 45 to 75 should be screened for Colorectal cancer. Regular screening beginning at age 45 is the key to preventing Colorectal cancer and finding it early. Listed below are the different types of screenings:

Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT)

Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT)

• The FOBT and FIT are stool sample tests that are 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 for testing.
  

Colonoscopy

• A Colonoscopy is a test that is done every ten (10) years. This test allows the doctor to examine the inside of the colon and rectum for polyps or other changes. This screening can find precancerous polyps (abnormal growth in the colon or rectum) that can be removed before they turn cancerous. Screenings also help find colorectal cancer at an early stage when treatment works best.
  

Colorectal cancer screenings save lives!

Most people with early-stage colorectal cancer do not experience any symptoms, and most often, people do not seek medical attention until it is in its later and more fatal stages. Your health is important! Talk to your Primary Care Provider about which test is right for you. If you are between the ages of 45 – 75, get your screening done right away. Call your Primary Care Provider or the Public Health Program to learn how you can obtain your free FIT kit and get screened today! You can obtain a FIT kit by calling the Public Health Program at 575-834-7207.