Colorectal cancer is a cancer that can be prevented. Most colorectal cancers start as benign polyps that can change over time to become cancerous. The goal of regular screening is to find and remove polyps before they become cancerous. Colon cancer also responds best to treatment when found and treated early. It is important to know that colon cancer may not cause symptoms in early stages.
Everyone should be screened for colorectal cancer starting at age 50. High risk people, including African Americans, may need to be screened before age 50. Talk with your doctor about whether you are at high risk for colon cancer and which screening test best suits you.
The Iowa Cancer Consortium has put together a list of free or reduced-cost colon cancer screenings to be held across Iowa during the month of March.
For help finding a screening near you, please call 1-800-237-1225 or go to www.canceriowa.org.
For more information about cancer risk or any cancer concern, contact the Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center/Cancer Information Service
|
