Get tested for cancer

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness month. Colon cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the United States.

In 2010, an estimated 102,900 new cases of colorectal cancer were anticipated, and of that number, 51,370 people were expected to die from the disease.








In Alabama, an estimated 2,300 new cases of colorectal cancer occurred in 2010, and an estimated 950 deaths will happen as a result of this diagnosis.

The good news is that when colorectal cancer is detected early, it can be effectively treated, increasing the chances of survival.

Sadly, research shows that only about half of individuals older than the age of 50 are actually screened for colon cancer.

This is why it is important to not only maintain a healthy lifestyle, but also to make it a point to have regular check-ups and routine colonoscopies, as my husband and I do.

So spread the word — having a colonoscopy isn't so bad, especially when you consider the alternatives, which could lead to death. If you are older than 50 years of age and have yet to schedule a colonoscopy, I would encourage you to make that appointment now.

Mary Sessions

Congressional Families Cancer

Prevention program of the Prevent

Cancer Foundation