Early Detection / Prevention

Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer. Unfortunately, many people do not know that colorectal cancer is preventable, treatable and beatable! By living a healthy lifestyle with regular check-ups and testing by your doctor, you can help prevent colon cancer.

The following are NEW recommendations from the American Cancer Society for colorectal cancer screening:

Beginning at age fifty, men and women who are at average risk for developing colorectal cancer should have one of the following screening tests:

Tests that find polyps and cancer

flexible sigmoidoscopy every five years

colonoscopy every ten years

double contrast barium enema every five years

CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy) every five years

Tests that mainly find cancer

fecal occult blood test (FOBT) every year

stool DNA test, interval uncertain

fecal immunochemical test (FIT) every year

WHAT IS A COLONOSCOPY?

A colonoscopy is an exam that allows a doctor to see and closely inspect the inside of the entire colon for signs of cancer or polyps (small growths that can eventually become cancerous if not removed). The doctor uses a slender, flexible, hollow lighted tube about the thickness of a finger and will remove polyps, if found. The exam itself takes 15-30 minutes and the patient is sedated.

WHY IS THE TEST SO IMPORTANT?

Removing polyps prevents colorectal cancer from ever starting!

Cancers found in an early stage are more easily treated. Nine out of ten people whose colon cancer is discovered early will be alive five years later.

LEGISLATIVE AND ADVOCACY INFORMATION

Colorectal Cancer Screening Senate Bill 278
On May 28, 2008, Senate Bill 278, legislation requiring insurance companies in Ohio to cover colorectal cancer screenings, passed by an overwhelming margin. Numerous Senators signed on as new co-sponsors of the bill and several Senators commented on their personal experiences with cancer. The American Cancer Society thanks Senator Kevin Coughlin of Summit County for shepherding this bill through the Senate.

Passage of this bill in the Senate is due to American Cancer Society volunteers’ dedication and support in the fight against cancer. Volunteers worked hard to send e-mails, make phone calls, and attend State Lobby Day to tell lawmakers that with proper screenings, colorectal cancer is curable, even preventable. Senators listened and made it clear that the health of Ohioans is a priority!

Become An Advocate for Cancer Issues:
      American Cancer Society - Advocacy Information
      American Cancer Society - Cancer Action Network