For parents and caregivers, life is busy. Between work, school events, and family responsibilities, it can be easy to put your own health on the back burner. But taking care of yourself is one of the most important things you can do for the people who depend on you.
This information about colorectal cancer awareness and screening options is brought to you in partnership with the Tuscarawas County Health Department.
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
This is a time to remind adults about the importance of screenings and early treatment. Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States.. but it is also highly preventable and treatable when caught early.
Health experts recommend that adults begin routine screening at age 45, even if they feel healthy and do not have symptoms. Screening tests can detect early warning signs—sometimes even before cancer develops—allowing doctors to treat problems sooner.
To help make screening more accessible for local residents, the Tuscarawas County Health Department is offering free colorectal cancer screenings for eligible adults this March.
Who is eligible?
The free screening is available for adults 45 and older who:
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Do not currently have symptoms of colorectal cancer
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Do not have a parent or sibling who has had colorectal cancer
To schedule an appointment or ask questions, call 330-343-5555, ext. 1810. The best part? Fasting is not required for this test, so you can easily fit it into your day.
Why screening matters
Colorectal cancer often develops slowly and may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. That’s why routine screening is so important. Detecting abnormal growths early can prevent cancer from developing, and catching cancer early greatly improves treatment success.
For parents and caregivers especially, staying up to date on recommended screenings helps ensure you can continue showing up for the moments that matter most—school plays, family dinners, weekend games, and everything in between.
Make your health a priority this March
During Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, adults aged 45 and older are encouraged to talk with their healthcare provider about colorectal cancer screening and choose the option that’s right for them.
If you’re 45 or older, consider taking advantage of the free screening opportunity with the Tuscarawas County Health Department. A quick test today could help protect your health for years to come—and keep you there for the people who count on you most.
Citations: https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/features/colorectal-cancer.htmlÂ