Have you been screened for colorectal cancer?  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 3 adults aged 50-75 years is not getting tested as recommended.  Celebrate Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month this March by scheduling your colorectal cancer screening test today.  The United States Preventive Services Task Force recommends colorectal cancer screening for average risk men and women aged 50-75 using high-sensitivity fecal occult blood testing, sigmoidoscopy, or colonoscopy.

Individuals at increased risk should talk to their doctor about when and how often they should be screened.  A person’s chance of developing colorectal cancer is increased by certain factors such as having a family history of colorectal cancer, a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, or having had polyps or colorectal cancer in the past.

If you are waiting to be screened because you are currently without health insurance, the Onondaga County Cancer Services Program (CSP) can help.  Men and women aged 50 to 64 who do not have health insurance may qualify for free colorectal cancer screening!  Call 435-3653 today to see if you qualify or visit the CSP website at /health/cancerscreening.html to register online.

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cancer killer of men and women in the United States.  Colorectal cancer is one of the only cancers that can be prevented through the removal of pre-cancerous polyps in the colon and/or rectum. There are often no symptoms during the early stages of colorectal cancer, making routine colorectal screening extremely important. If symptoms do appear, they may include rectal bleeding, black tarry stools, a change in bowel habits, persistent abdominal pain or cramping, and unexplained weight loss.

Testing and early detection saves lives.  Call the Cancer Services Program today at 435-3653 to see if you qualify for your free colorectal screening!