RIO GRANDE – Sept. 18, 2016, representatives from the Cape May County Department of Health will be at the Rio Grande Walmart distributing’ to those who qualify, free take home screening test for colorectal cancer. Colorectal Cancer is the third leading cause of death in the United States among men and women. The best prevention against colorectal cancer is early detection.
“Cape May County’s resident’s health is our number one priority. Screening can also find colorectal cancer in the early stages which raises one’s chances of survival to 90 percent,” said Cape May County Health Officer Kevin Thomas.
Colorectal cancer usually starts out as polyps in the colon or rectum. People who have polyps or colorectal cancer do not always have symptoms, especially in the early stages. If there are symptoms, they may include:
- Blood in or on your stool.
- Stomach aches, pains, or cramps that happen a lot and you do not know why.
- A change in bowel habits, such as having stools that are narrower than usual.
- Weight loss for unknown reason.
Since individuals with polyps or colorectal cancer usually do not have symptoms American Cancer Society guidelines suggest that individuals 50 and older or at high risk get screened for Colorectal Cancer.
Those at High Risk Include:
- Inflammatory bowel Disease
- Family History
- History of polyps
Screening for colorectal cancer can give an individual the best chance of survival. If screening guidelines were followed at least one third of deaths from this cancer could be prevented.
New Jersey Cancer Education and Early Detection, NJCEED, program offers free colorectal, breast, cervical and prostate cancer screenings to uninsured or underinsured individuals. NJCEED is located at the Cape May Department of Health in the Crest Haven Complex in Cape May Court House at exit 11 off the Garden State Parkway. Do not get behind, make an appointment today by calling NJCEED at (609) 465-1047. Additional information can also be found at www.capemaycountnj.gov or by liking us on Facebook.
