Prairie State Wire

March marks Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is encouraging residents to increase their understanding of the disease and emphasize the importance of regular screenings.

“Colorectal cancer screening saves lives,” stated IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. "Colorectal cancer is the second leading cancer death in the United States, behind only lung cancer. We know, for many, that it can be scary or inconvenient to get screened, but most types of colorectal cancers are preventable or treatable when detected early. Several screening tests can be used, including some you can do at home. If you are 45 and over, please talk to your healthcare provider on the right test for you. Let’s come together this Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month to raise awareness, share stories, and save lives."

Early detection of colorectal cancer offers a five-year survival rate of approximately 90%. However, if not identified in time and allowed to spread to other parts of the body, this rate decreases significantly to just 10%. Regular screenings play a crucial role in identifying early warning signs and detecting cancer at its initial stages when treatment is most effective.

In Illinois alone during 2023, there were 6,200 new cases diagnosed with more than 2,100 fatalities due to colorectal cancer. The disease's incidence is notably higher among Black non-Hispanic males and females.

Various testing options are available for detecting colorectal cancer:

- Colonoscopy: This test identifies cancer and detects polyps before they turn into cancer.

- Sigmoidoscopy: A less invasive option than a colonoscopy as it examines only the lower part of the colon.

- Fecal occult blood test and fecal immunochemical test: These tests detect blood presence in stool samples.

- Stool DNA test (known commercially as Cologuard): While not preventive, it identifies blood presence and abnormal DNA linked with potential cancers.

Choosing an appropriate test involves considering factors such as age, health status, family history, and risk elements. Consultation with healthcare providers will help determine which method suits best. Screenings are typically advised for individuals aged between 45 to 75 years; those younger but at higher risk should also seek medical advice regarding testing.

Governor JB Pritzker has supported these efforts by signing a proclamation recognizing March as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in Illinois. For more information on prevention strategies visit Colorectal Cancer (illinois.gov).