Colon cancer is one of the most common cancers in America, with the American Cancer Society (ACS) estimating that there will be more than 106,180 new colon cancer cases and over 44,850 new rectal cancer cases in 2022. Historically, colon cancer has been the third most common cancer in both men and women, and it remains so today.
Because March is National Colon Cancer Awareness month, there’s no better time to help educate our community about the disease and shed light on why screenings — which many people avoid — are so very important.
While you may already be aware of the importance of colon cancer screenings, you may be among the large number of Americans who avoid screenings anyway. According to research by the American Cancer Society, some of the top reasons people avoid getting tested include: hearing the test was difficult or painful; concerns about the cost of the test; and the thought that they don’t have to get tested because there is no family history of colon cancer.
These concerns are largely unfounded, though. The idea of a colonoscopy may be a little uncomfortable, but the actual procedure is not, and the life-saving benefits are very real. Also, most insurance companies, including Capital Health Plan, cover the cost of the test entirely.
Even if you don’t have the high-risk factors — family history, personal history of ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, having received radiation to the abdomen or pelvic area, or a history of other types of cancer — you are still at average risk of contracting colon cancer. Many major groups, including the American Cancer Society, recommend screening for all people beginning at age 45 and, if you are at increased risk, you would start sooner. Following this guideline can save your life.
On Friday, March 1, many members of our Tallahassee community will participate in “Dress in Blue” day to draw much-needed attention to colon cancer and generate conversations about what steps people can take to be proactive in their health and prevent the development of cancer.
Colon cancer can be a silent killer. According to the American Cancer Society, once you begin to feel the symptoms of colorectal cancer, it’s often very advanced and more difficult to effectively treat. However, if colorectal cancer is detected early on, the survival rate is actually 90 percent. This is why it’s so critical to take care of yourself and do the screenings.
This March, I encourage you to take part in Colon Cancer Awareness Month by sharing with friends and family the importance of colon cancer screening and, most importantly, getting yourself screened. And on Friday, March 1, put on your favorite blue shirt and wear it with pride.
Tara Loucks, APRN, is the Clinical Director of Capital Health Plan’s Colon Screening Program.