Submitted by Dr. Tara Chalmers-Nixon, MD, FRCPC
Colon cancer (also referred to as bowel cancer) is a common and potentially preventable disease. It is a cancer that is found in the large intestine (called the colon or large bowel and includes the rectum).
Screening for colon cancer could save your life!
Colon cancer is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide. However, 90% of cases can be treated when found early in the course of the disease. That’s why we’re rallying our community to participate in FIT (fecal immunochemical test) screening for colon cancer. Everyone has a colon, so almost everyone should be screened. If you are between the ages of 50 and 74 without any bowel symptoms, or not already being actively monitored for bowel disease, you are eligible for colon cancer screening.
FIT screening is a simple, non-invasive test that can be done at home. It detects tiny amounts of blood in the stool (poop), which can be an early sign of colon cancer. By participating in FIT screening, you’re taking a proactive step towards protecting your health and well-being.
If your FIT test is positive for blood (even if you don’t see blood in the stool), then you will be scheduled for a colonoscopy through the BC Cancer Agency Colon Screening Program and will be contacted directly by a health care provider with the program.
By spreading awareness and encouraging our friends, family, and neighbours to participate, we can create a ripple effect of positive change in our community. So, let’s come together as a community and prioritize our health. Schedule your FIT screening today, and encourage others to do the same. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against colon cancer.
Talk to your doctor about colon cancer screening. If you don’t have a doctor or other primary care provider such as a nurse practitioner, pick up a FIT kit at the Elk Valley Hospital in Fernie, or contact the Elk Valley Medical Clinic at (250) 423-8959 to find out how you can arrange colorectal cancer screening.
QUICK POINTS:
• FIT kit screening is free
• You may have no symptoms, but you can still be at risk of colon
cancer
• If found early, bowel cancer can be successfully treated in more than
90% of cases
• Put the test near the toilet, where you will remember to do it
• For more information, see: www.bccancer.bc.ca/screening/colon