Don’t Wait: Get Screened for Colorectal Cancer During National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

MIAMI ENVY MAGAZINE – March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and it’s the perfect time to educate yourself on the importance of getting screened. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in both men and women in the United States, with over 100,000 new cases diagnosed each year. However, when caught early, it is highly treatable, making early detection key to survival.

Who Should Get Screened and When?

The American Cancer Society recommends that individuals with an average risk of developing colorectal cancer begin regular screening at the age of 45. Those with a family history of the disease or other risk factors should talk to their doctor about starting screening earlier or getting screened more frequently.

Types of Screening Tests

There are several types of screening tests available, including colonoscopy, fecal occult blood test (FOBT), and stool DNA test. A colonoscopy is the most common and effective test for detecting and preventing colorectal cancer, as it allows the doctor to examine the entire colon and remove any polyps that may be found.

Benefits of Getting Screened

The benefits of getting screened for colorectal cancer are clear. Regular screening can detect precancerous polyps before they turn into cancer, making it easier to treat and even prevent the disease altogether. Additionally, early detection and treatment can improve survival rates, making it crucial to get screened regularly.

Where to Find Locations for Screening

For those without insurance, there are many resources available in Florida for free or low-cost screening. The Florida Department of Health offers a statewide program called “Florida Colorectal Cancer Control Program” that provides screening, referrals, and follow-up care to eligible individuals. Additionally, local clinics and hospitals may offer free or low-cost screening during National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.

Did You Know?

• Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States.
• About 90% of colorectal cancer cases occur in people aged 50 or older.
• Colorectal cancer is preventable through early detection and removal of precancerous polyps.

In conclusion, National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month is a crucial time to educate yourself on the importance of getting screened for colorectal cancer. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Speak to your doctor today and get screened for colorectal cancer. It could save your life.

Here are some resources for finding screening locations in Florida:

1. Florida Department of Health Colorectal Cancer Control Program – https://floridahealthcancercontrol.com/colorectal-cancer-screening-program/
2. American Cancer Society – https://www.cancer.org/cancer/colon-rectal-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/acs-recommendations.html
3. Colon Cancer Alliance – https://www.ccalliance.org/get-screened/screening-resources

In addition to the resources listed above, there are several other organizations that offer free or low-cost colorectal cancer screening services in Florida. Some of these organizations include:

1. The Florida Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (FBCCEDP) – This program provides free screening services for breast and cervical cancer to uninsured or underinsured women. They also offer colon cancer screening to women who meet certain eligibility criteria. To learn more about the FBCCEDP and to find a screening location near you, visit their website at https://www.flhealthsource.gov/fbccedp/.
2. The American Cancer Society – The American Cancer Society provides information about colorectal cancer and screening, as well as resources to help you find a screening location near you. They also offer a free colon cancer screening test kit for eligible individuals. To learn more about the American Cancer Society and their services, visit their website at https://www.cancer.org/.
3. The Colon Cancer Foundation – The Colon Cancer Foundation is a non-profit organization that works to increase awareness about colorectal cancer and provide support to patients and their families. They offer a free screening program for uninsured or underinsured individuals who are at high risk for colon cancer. To learn more about the Colon Cancer Foundation and their services, visit their website at https://coloncancerfoundation.org/.

It’s important to remember that getting screened for colorectal cancer is not just for those who are experiencing symptoms or have a family history of the disease. Everyone over the age of 45 should get screened regularly, regardless of their risk level. Early detection is key to improving survival rates and preventing the spread of the disease.

Here are some additional facts about colorectal cancer that you may not know:

• Colorectal cancer is more common in men than women, with men having a 1 in 23 chance of developing the disease compared to a 1 in 25 chance for women.
• African Americans have the highest incidence and mortality rates of colorectal cancer of any racial or ethnic group in the United States.
• Lifestyle factors such as obesity, physical inactivity, and a diet high in red meat and processed meats can increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer.

In conclusion, National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month is an important time to learn about the importance of getting screened for colorectal cancer. By taking advantage of free or low-cost screening resources in Florida and making screening a regular part of your healthcare routine, you can help prevent the spread of this deadly disease and improve your chances of survival if diagnosed. Don’t wait – talk to your doctor today about getting screened for colorectal cancer.