McLaren Offers Free Colorectal Cancer Screenings Throughout March

This Simple At-home Test May Save Your Life

Precancerous polyps and early-stage colorectal cancer don’t always cause symptoms—especially in the early stages. An individual could have polyps, or colorectal cancer, and not even know it. This is why routine screening is so important. Screening allows for these polyps to be caught and removed before developing further into cancer.

Regional Director of Karmanos Cancer Institute Nancy King, RN, encourages anyone over the age of 45 to follow the American Cancer Society's recommendation and regularly be screened for signs of colorectal cancer.

There are several factors outside of an individual's control which lead to a higher risk for developing colorectal cancer including: being older, family cancer history, previously being diagnosed with colon polyps or colorectal cancer, or a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease. It is important to note, there are several steps an individual can take to reduce their risk for developing colorectal cancer including: maintaining a healthy weight, being more physically active, eating a healthy diet, stopping smoking, and limiting alcohol.

"Many colorectal cancers can be prevented through routine screening," said King. "Our local screenings use FIT testing, which is short for fecal immunochemical test. This simple test looks for hidden blood in the stool which can be an early sign of colon cancer."

HOW TO PARTICIPATE:
Pre-registration is required. Call toll-free 1-877-411-2762 anytime or register online at www.mclaren.org/crcscreening.

A signed consent form is required, and the kit must be picked up in person at the correct screening location and time. Unfortunately, kits cannot be mailed or picked up for family or friends.

Once in the privacy of your home, follow the directions for completing the simple stool sample test. Once finished, mail the kit back in the postage paid envelope. Results can be expected in 2-3 weeks once the kit is mailed.

"We look forward to seeing you and want to assure you that we will have COVID screening guidelines in place to ensure your safety," said King. "Taking care of your health is one of the best investments you can make."