Cape Regional joins national effort to save lives from colorectal cancer by 2018 through increased screening
CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE – With the swipe of a pen, Cape Regional Health System announced today their commitment to increase colorectal cancer screening in South Jersey by joining a national effort with the American Cancer Society in the fight against this disease. Today’s announcement celebrates Cape Regional’s commitment to achieve an 80 percent screened rate by 2018, a shared goal led by the National Colorectal Cancer Roundtable (NCCRT). The Roundtable was started by the American Cancer Society and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 1997.
The national percentage of adults 50 and older who are up-to-date with recommended colorectal cancer screening has increased from 56 percent in 2002 to 65 percent in 2010. By focusing on target audiences, Cape Regional is in a very good position to achieve 80 percent screened for colorectal cancer by the year 2018.
“Colorectal cancer is a major public health problem. Adults age 50 and older should be regularly screened for it. There are several screening options, including take home tests,” said Dr. Alvaro Carrascal, Vice President of Health Systems for the American Cancer Society. “Colorectal cancer can be prevented or detected early through appropriate screening, and tens of thousands of lives can be saved if we increase screening to reach 80% by 2018.”
“Our entire team, including our Board of Trustees, physicians, clinical and support staff, and volunteers, are committed to taking on this challenge and to reach the 80% by 2018 goal,” stated Joanne Carrocino, FACHE, President and CEO, Cape Regional Health System.
“We proudly signed this pledge and look forward to working closely with the American Cancer Society over the next 18 months,” added Ellen Kravet Burke, Board Chairman, Cape Regional Health System.
Colorectal cancer is the nation’s third-leading cause of cancer-related deaths, but it can be prevented. Through proper colorectal cancer screening, doctors can find and remove hidden growths (called “polyps”) in the colon, before they become cancerous. Removing polyps can prevent cancer altogether.
For more information about colorectal cancer screening, please visit www.cancer.org/colon or contact the American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345. For more information about the 80% by 2018 initiative, visit www.nccrt.org.
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