Stride for Health: Awareness and Action for CRC

March is recognized as Colorectal Cancer (CRC) Awareness Month, a time when Jemez Public Health focuses on spreading awareness about this preventable but often overlooked disease. With education and early screening, we can significantly reduce the risk of late diagnoses and improve survival rates. In this blog, we’ll dive deep into why regular screening is essential, how colorectal cancer is diagnosed, and the range of treatment options available to those affected. Our goal is to empower the community with the knowledge and resources needed to make informed health decisions.

The Importance of Screening and Raising Awareness

CRC affects both men and women, but it is especially devastating in Native American communities, where rates for CRC remain high. Nationwide the rates are declining but they continue to be a concern for Native Americans with certain risk factors like family history, lifestyle, and limited healthcare access. In recent years, there has also been a troubling rise in diagnoses in individuals under 50 years of age. 

Diagnosis and Understanding Treatment Process 

If you or a loved one are diagnosed with colorectal cancer, understanding the stage of the cancer is the first step in determining the best treatment options. Cancer stages range from 1 to 5, with earlier stages being more treatable. The earlier the detection, the better the outcomes. Screening is recommended for everyone over 45, or sooner if there’s a family history or other risk factors. 

Early detection often means smaller tumors, more effective treatment, and better overall chances for recovery.

Treatment Options and What You Need to Know 

If diagnosed with CRC, there are several treatment options available, depending on the stage. These may include: 

• Surgery: Removing the tumor, especially if detected early. 

• Chemotherapy: Often used after surgery to kill remaining cancer cells and prevent recurrence. 

• Radiation Therapy: Shrinks tumors before surgery or targets cancer cells that have spread.

• Targeted Therapy & Immunotherapy: Newer treatments that focus on the specific mechanisms to stop growth and spread.

Each person’s treatment plan is tailored to their specific needs, and having a supportive network of family, friends, and healthcare providers is vital during this journey.

At Jemez Public Health, we are passionate about raising awareness, educating the community, and providing the resources needed to help prevent and detect CRC early. Here’s how we’re getting involved:

• Health Screenings: We offer information and resources on where to get screened for CRC.

• FIT / FOBT Kits: We provide free test kits to help you screen for colorectal cancer at home.

  
  
  
  

• Education and Outreach: We host educational events and distribute materials to spread the word about CRC prevention and the importance of early detection.

Join Us for the Fun Run & Walk Event!

To further promote awareness, Jemez Public Health is hosting a Fun Run & Walk event on Saturday, March 29th, outside of the Walatowa Fitness Center starting at 9 AM. During the event, attendees will have access to health screenings and CRC educational materials. We’ll also have incentives for all participants, so be sure to mark your calendars, spread the word, and bring your friends and family along!

For more information, contact the Jemez Public Health office at (575) 834 – 7207 and speak with a member of the colorectal team.