Colorectal Cancer

Adopting healthy behaviors such as eating nutritious foods, being physically active and avoiding tobacco use can prevent or control the devastating effects of chronic disease.

Colorectal Cancer Screening Program 443-523-1760

Program Highlights:

This program offers free colorectal cancer screening for Somerset County residents between the ages of 50-64 or younger if an individual has a family history of colorectal cancer or adenomatous (pre-cancerous) polyps. Eligibility factors include having no health insurance coverage for colonoscopies and meeting the income guidelines. Screening is done by a colonoscopy in the hospital or dependingat an outpatient gastroenterology center.

Colon cancer is the #2 cause of cancer related deaths in the US. 90% of colon cancer is preventable by having polyps removed during a screening colonoscopy. Screening should be done every ten years for individuals considered at average risk or more often if at increased risk for colon cancer. Persons at increased risk include: having a first degree relative-- mother, father, brother or sister, who has had adenomatous polyps, a personal history of polyps, inflammatory bowel disease (Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn’s Colitis) or women who have had cancer of the ovary or endometrium before age 50-should have a colonoscopy at a younger age.

Program Qualifications:

• Somerset County Resident
• Age 50-64, or younger, if there is a family history of either adenomatous type polyps or colon or rectal cancer
• Low income individuals, up to 250% above the poverty level (call for guidelines)
• Uninsured or have insurance with no colonoscopy screening benefits
• No Medical Assistance or commercial HMO insurance accepted
• Women who have had either ovarian or endometrial cancer (womb)

Program Contact: Or for information, call:

Maureen McAllister, RN/MS
Phone: (443)523-1755 OR 443-523-1760
Fax: (410)651-3425

Location: Somerset County Health Department (SCHD), 7920 Crisfield HWY, Westover, MD 21871

SCHD offers free colorectal cancer screening through a colonoscopy. We will ensure that clients receive colorectal cancer education, screening, case management, and referral to Medical Assistance for treatment if needed. Individuals will meet with the nurse case manager for an interview appointment and then are referred to a participating colorectal cancer screening provider for a colonoscopy. Both client and primary care providers will be notified in writing of colonoscopy results. Clients will be referred to Medical Assistance by the nurse case manager if further treatment is needed.

Prevention:

 Nearly 90% of colon cancer can be prevented by removing polyps from the large intestine by a colonoscopy. Adopting healthy behaviors such as eating nutritious foods, increasing fruits and vegetables, eating less red meat, being physically active and avoiding tobacco use can prevent or control the devastating effects of chronic disease and cancer.

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Colorectal Cancer and African Americans 

Here are some facts from the American Cancer Society March 2009 Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Approximately 16,440 African Americans were expected to be diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2007.

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in both African American women & men.

The 5-year survival rate for colorectal cancer among African Americans improved from 46% to 55 % in the past 3 decades.

In 2005, only about 40% of African Americans age 50 and older were tested for colon cancer. Improvements in screeing rates are necessary to continue making progress against colon cancer.

There are steps you can take to reduce your risk of colon cancer:

• Begin screening at age 50, and before age 50 if there is strong family history.
• Maintain a healthy weight and be physically active. Eat a well-balanced diet that is high in vegetables, fruites, and whole grains. Limit consumption of red meat and processed meat.
• Limit alchol consumption.

Colon cancer is preventable, treatable, and beatable.

Tell your family members and friends that there is a free colonoscopy screening program through the Somerset County Health Department.