According to the Nebraska Colon Cancer Screening Program Colorectal cancer is the second leading cancer killer in the US.  If everyone 50 or older had regular screening tests, at least 1/3 of deaths from this cancer could be avoided.  Colorectal cancer is cancer that occurs in the colon or rectum and occurs most often in people age 50 and older.  The risk increases with age.

Both men and women age 50 and older are at risk for developing colon cancer.   Your risk may be higher than average if you or a close relative have had colorectal polyps or cancer or if you have inflammatory bowel disease.  Speak with your doctor about having earlier or more frequent tests if you think you’re at high risk for colorectal cancer.

Getting a screening test for colorectal cancer could save your life.  If you are 50 or older or you or a relative have had colorectal polyps or cancer or have inflammatory bowel disease  get screened today.  For a FREE colon cancer screening kit contact Panhandle Public Health District at 1-855-227-2217 or email rcorman@pphd.org.  Free FOBT kits are also available at Nein Pharmacy and Sonny’s Pharmacy in Bridgeport, Pamida Pharmacy in Alliance, and Western Drug CO in Sidney. Test kits are available to Panhandle Residents.

Colorectal Cancer Handouts

Updated February 29, 2012