It is easy to take our loved ones for granted, isn’t it? Sometimes we spend less time showing our care and concern for our closest family and friends because we know they will always be there. But the truth is, we must take the time to express our true feelings because there are no guarantees in our changing world. There are also no guarantees when it comes to good health.
One way that you can show family members or friends that you care is by scheduling a screening colonoscopy for them in the month of March. March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month, a time to focus on the importance of colon cancer education and prevention. Colon cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer, but only 2 out of every 3 adults in the United States who are eligible for a colonoscopy are choosing to be screened. Because of this, 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.
There are many other types of colon screenings that are available, but the colonoscopy is unique. 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.
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? Statistics are much more than just numbers if your loved one has been affected by colon cancer. The true power of the colonoscopy is not in its ability to diagnose colon cancer but it its ability to prevent it. In fact, most new cases of colorectal cancer could be prevented with regular colonoscopies.
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, you can also 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 them afterwards. Going the extra mile for your loved ones will show your dedication and concern for their overall health.
Show your family and friends the care and concern that they deserve. Celebrate Colon Cancer Awareness Month by calling and making colonoscopy screening appointments to prevent colon cancer. If you are able to share more of your time, volunteer to be their caregiver on the “big day” to see them through the entire process. Through education and encouragement, we can reduce the incidence of colon cancer.