45 is the new 50 for colorectal cancer screening
By Suzanne Canfield and Lisa Milewski
The Cancer Services Program (CSP) of Erie County is happy to share that we now offer free colorectal cancer screening at age 45, instead of 50. Our program screens people who do not have insurance and who are at average risk for colorectal cancer.
The CSP gives out screening tests that are done at home and mailed to a lab.
A screening test is used to look for disease before there are symptoms.
Screening tests can find cancer early when it may be easier to treat. When it comes to colorectal cancer, screening may even prevent it by finding growths that can be removed before they turn into cancer.
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Last May, the national recommendations for screening were changed from age 50 to 45 for people at average risk for colorectal cancer. If you think you may be at higher risk for colorectal cancer due to family history, symptoms, or because you have other bowel diseases, ask your health care provider if you should begin screening before age 45.
The CSP is asking all adults to talk to their health care providers about their risk for colorectal cancer and when to start screening. If you do not have insurance or health care provider, call the CSP at 716-858-7376.
Suzanne Canfield and Lisa Milewski are senior outreach aides with CSP of Erie County. For more information, visit www3.erie.gov/cancerservices.