PHOENIX - As the end of 2007 fast approaches, The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) is recommending that all Arizonans, age 50 and older, resolve to get screened for colorectal cancer in 2008 and make cancer screening a top New Year’s resolution. According to about.com, the top five New Year’s resolutions are:
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2. Get fit
3. Tame the bulge
4. Quit smoking
5. Enjoy life more
“The Arizona Department of Health Services would like to see colorectal cancer screening move to the top of the New Year’s resolution list and we encourage everyone age 50 and older to get screened in 2008,” said Susan Gerard, State Health Department Director. “Colorectal cancer is the second deadliest form of cancer but it is preventable if adults take the initiative to get screened.”
Sixty percent of the top New Year’s resolutions are health related and ADHS hopes that adults 50 and older will include colorectal cancer screening as part of their commitment to stay healthy in ‘08.
Each year, 2,400 Arizonans will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer. It affects both men and women almost equally, occurs in all racial and ethnic groups, and is most often found in people ages 50 and older. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer affecting men, after prostate and lung cancers. For women, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer after breast and lung cancers.
“It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3,” said Kendra Sabol, program director for the Arizona Cancer Control Program. “We are urging all Arizonans 50 years and older to make colon cancer screening their New Year’s resolution by 1) calling their doctor; 2) making the appointment; and 3) getting screened. It may save their life.”
Colorectal cancer has no symptoms or warning signs and that is why ADHS is urging Arizonans age 50 and older to call their health care provider, make an appointment and get screened in 08. Early detection and removal of polyps in the colon actually prevents development of many colorectal cancers.
To learn more about regular screenings for colorectal cancer visit the website at http://www.getscreenedaz.com/ or call your doctor.
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