By Tricia Fisher, director of operations, oncology services, UnityPoint Clinic
Did you know colon cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer? However, it can be cured if detected early. Treatment during cancer’s earliest stages dramatically increases a person’s chance of survival, and it’s easier than ever to detect colon cancer right from your own home.
Colorectal cancer most often develops from precancerous polyps (abnormal growths) in the colon or rectum. Most never get symptoms to indicate they have these polyps. Screening tests can find precancerous polyps so that they can be removed before they turn into cancer. Screening tests can also find colorectal cancer early when treatment works best and you have more options.
Because of early screenings, colorectal cancer cases and death rates have dropped by more than 30% in the U.S. among adults 50 and older in the last 15 years. However, the ongoing pandemic is causing more people to skip their regular screenings and delay care.
Thanks to grant support from Iowa Cancer Consortium, UnityPoint Health® – Trinity and Gilda’s Club Quad Cities are offering at-home colon cancer screening kits at no cost for Scott, Louisa, and Muscatine County residents 45 and older. Experts recommend those 45 or older be screened for colon cancer, or earlier if you have a family history of colon cancer or irritable bowel syndrome.
Making time for your own health during the pandemic may be challenging, but now is the time to get back on track. If you missed a cancer screening due to the pandemic, today is the day to take action. Attend a free one-hour educational seminar (virtual option also available) and then receive a free at-home screening kit.
It’s quick and easy:
- Attend a free one-hour educational session on colon cancer prevention.
- Receive a free at-home screening kit.
- Follow the provided instructions and return your sample in the pre-paid mailing envelope.
- Review the results with your healthcare provider.
By removing barriers – cost, transportation, and time – we hope anyone who needs a potentially life-saving cancer screening can receive one. Please invite others in the community who may have challenges accessing care.
We have two upcoming seminars. Join us for a free Colon Cancer Seminar and Educational Workshop (virtual and in-person options available):
- Thursday, March 31 from 6 to 7 p.m.
- Thursday, April 21 from 6 to 7 p.m.
Register online and request a free kit at uph.link/colon.
If you are unable to attend the educational workshop, you may still request a free screening kit by calling (309) 779-5796.
Together we can save lives.
