Love is a word that is so overused that its meaning is somewhat diminished. It is easy to say that you love someone, but showing it is much more difficult because love requires action and not just words. During Colon Cancer Awareness Month, put your feelings into action and schedule a colonoscopy for someone you love.
Colon cancer is the third-leading cause of cancer death in the United States among men and women, and it affects one in 20 Americans. It is estimated that there will be 95,520 new cases of colon cancer in 2017 and 39,910 new cases of rectal cancer in 2017. What if one of these individuals was a beloved family member or friend? Most of these new cases could be prevented with regular colonoscopies.
A colonoscopy is not like any other colon screening. It has the power of detection, diagnosis and prevention in a single procedure. All colon cancer begins as a tiny cluster of cells that can form a precancerous polyp. If polyps are not removed, they have the potential to become cancerous. A colonoscopy exam involves a full visual inspection of the colon and the removal of any precancerous polyps before they can even develop into cancer.
You want the best for your loved one, so schedule a colonoscopy for your parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, or friend during the month of March. It is the best way to show that you care. After you schedule their colonoscopy, offer to be a caregiver on the day of the procedure. Every colonoscopy patient needs a caregiver to remain at the facility during the procedure and drive the patient home afterwards. Going the extra mile for your loved one will show your dedication and concern for his or her overall health.
Back up your words with action. Take a moment today to make that phone call and get the appointment in the books. Colon cancer is one of the only cancers that is truly preventable with routine screenings, but we need people like you to help share this important message. Thank you for support of Colon Cancer Awareness Month.