You've heard it like a broken record, which is what I sometimes feel like when I talk about this subject. By "this subject," I'm referring to the importance of regular colon cancer screening to prevent colon cancer and to prevent deaths due to colon cancer.
Looking at Benefits of Colon Cancer Screening Among Millions
A large, well-designed study gives more support to the notion that when it comes to colon cancer, nothing saves lives like getting everyone screened. The study included over 2 million, 50-90 year old men and women living in Ontario, Canada. This group was followed for 14 years to determine the connection between colon cancer screening rates where people lived and the likelihood of dying of colon cancer in those areas.
More Screening = Fewer Deaths Due to Colon Cancer
The researchers found that for every 1% increase in colon cancer screening rates in a given geographic area, the population in that area experienced a 3% decrease in the risk of dying of colon cancer. That's like getting 3 for the price of 1!
Screening works for the simple reason that it catches colon cancer early, before it has spread beyond the colon. When caught early, or even better, when pre-cancerous colon growths are removed before they become cancer, this disease is very treatable. Nearly everyone diagnosed with early stage colon cancer will be cured. Unfortunately, once the disease has spread, it's much harder to treat, and treatments are less successful.
Don't Rely on Your Doctor
It's important to take responsibility for your own health and ask your doctor about colon cancer screening. Many doctors don't know or don't follow the official guidelines for when and how often people need to be screened for colon cancer.
Learn the guidelines and how they apply to you. Make sure you get the health care you deserve and that you need to stay colon cancer free.
