MHP offering FREE Colorectal Cancer Screening Kits in March
Mahaska Health Partnership
OSKALOOSA – Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States. During the month of March, Mahaska Health Partnership is offering free screening kits that can be completed in the privacy of your own home.
Colorectal Cancer is a cancer that develops in the colon or rectum, which are part of the digestive system. According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancers develop slowly over several years and begin with a non-cancerous polyp on the inner lining of the colon or rectum.
“Regular colorectal cancer screening or testing is one of the most powerful weapons for preventing colorectal cancer,” explained MHP Adult Medicine Practitioner Lisa Nelson, ARNP. “The free screening kits being offered can help detect the warning signs of polyps, hopefully before they become cancerous.”
The American Cancer Society recommends adults age 50 years and older, and those with increased risk factors, complete a fecal occult blood test (FOBT) annually. “The test is very simple to complete and the sample is collected in the privacy of your home, and then mailed in,” Nelson said. “Your results are mailed back to you and if they are positive, you should contact your primary care provider for a follow-up exam. There could be other reasons why blood is detected in your stool, so a positive FOBT test does not mean you have cancer..”
The FOBT is used to find hidden blood in a person’s stool. Usually, blood vessels on the surface of a polyp are fragile and easily damaged by the passage of feces. The damaged vessels release a small amount of blood that can be detected by examining the feces.
“The FOBT test is painless and takes just a few minutes to perform,” Nelson explained. “In addition, there is no direct risk to the colon, no bowel preparation and MHP is offering it for free throughout the month of March.”
People with increased risk for developing colorectal cancer are those with:
· A personal history of colorectal cancer or adenomatous (potentially cancerous) polyps
· A personal history of inflammatory bowel disease
· A strong family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
Kits are available on the MHP campus in Oskaloosa at the Specialty Services Lobby (Entrance #4), the Main Admitting Lobby (Entrance #1), Family Medical Center, New Sharon Medical Center, Keokuk County Hospice offices in Sigourney or one can be requested and mailed to you through the MHP website by visiting mahaskahealth.org.
If you are age 50 or older, or have increased risk factors, get your free colorectal cancer screening kit from MHP during the month of March. To learn how Mahaska Health Partnership is making healthcare personal, visit our website or call (641) 672-3100.
