Colon Cancer in Idaho

Preventable, Treatable, Beatable

The face of colon cancer is strikingly familiar. It is the second leading cause of cancer deaths for both men and women, claiming more than 49,000 lives a year in the U.S. With March being Colorectal Cancer Screening Awareness month, the Central District Health Department is joining with other area health organizations to increase public awareness of the disease, and the importance of early detection and treatment.

Detecting colon cancer early through a cancer screening can improve the chances of survival by 95%. Just ask Karen Echeverria. She was shocked to learn she had colon cancer because she’s healthy, eats right, exercises, and has no history of cancer in her family.

“I didn’t want to get a colonoscopy,” said Echeverria, “But, I’m glad I did. They found a tumor and it was removed before it could become life-threatening. That test saved my live.”

If you’re 50 or older, make time for cancer screening. Colon cancer starts as a growth (polyp) in the large intestine (colon) or rectum. Screening tests find polyps so they can be removed before they turn into cancer. Tests can also find cancer in the early stages when it is easier to treat. The risk of colon cancer increases as we get older. Colon cancer often has no symptoms.

Screening tests include: Fecal Occult Blood Test; Flexible Sigmoidoscopy; Colonoscopy; and Double Contrast Barium Enema. Talk with your healthcare provider about choosing the test that’s right for you. Tests are covered by almost all insurance plans, including Medicare.

The American Cancer Society recommends people over the age of 50 get a fecal occult blood test every year and a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy every 5 – 10 years. Speak with your healthcare provider for specific recommendations.

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