Have You Been Screened
for This Common Cancer?
When it comes to screenings for cancer of the colon and rectum, a lot
of us procrastinate. But these screenings are fast and not painful.
Even testing such as colonoscopy may take only 15 to 20 minutes. And that’s time well-spent, because screening can detect cancer in its early stages. Tests can also locate abnormal growths—called polyps—years before cancer develops.
How effective is screening? Doctors say three out of five deaths from colorectal cancer could be prevented with regular screening.
Who Needs to Be Screened
If you’re age 50 or older, the
Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention recommends
regular checks for colorectal
cancer. However, you may need
to get tested at an earlier age if
you have:
- A previous history of polyps or colorectal cancer
- A family history of polyps or colorectal cancer
- Inflammatory bowel disease
Multiple Choices
You have several options
when it comes to screening:
- A test for hidden blood in the stool, called a fecal occult blood test, every year
- A barium enema, or lower gastrointestinal series, which is an X-ray of the lower digestive tract, every five years
- A sigmoidoscopy, a procedure that checks the lower colon and rectum using a tiny camera, every five years
- A colonoscopy, another procedure that checks the entire colon and rectum with a camera, every 10 years
You may need more frequent testing depending on your health history.
If you’re due for a screening, ask your doctor which test is right for you.
Come to Our Big Band Dance Parties!
Grab your dancing shoes and join us at Paramount Elite’s Big Band Dance Parties.
April 3—Garden Party
September 25—Fall Fiesta
December 4—Jingle Bell Ball
They’ll be held from 7 to 11 p.m., at Stranahan Great Hall at 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd., Toledo, Ohio.
Jeff McDonald’s Swingmania Orchestra will provide the music. There will also be door prizes, free snacks, and a cash bar. This event is free for Paramount Elite members who bring their ID card and $5 for guests.