To the editor:

The Cancer Services Program of Northeastern NY wants you to know that you can prevent colorectal cancer by getting screened. Regular screening can find the growths that lead to colorectal cancer. These growths can then be removed. This prevents cancer. Screening tests can also find colorectal cancer early when treatment may work best.

Other ways to lower your risk for colorectal cancer include not smoking, not drinking alcohol or drinking less. You can also lower your risk by being physically active, eating more fruits and vegetables, and eating less red meat and processed foods. These habits are good for your overall health too.

Did you know that colorectal cancer has been increasing in people under age 55 since the mid-1990s? The American Cancer Society projects that colorectal cancer will be the leading cause of cancer-related death among 20 to 49-year-olds by 2030.

Don’t wait to take care of your health. Everyone aged 45 or older should be screened. Some people are screened younger than age 45 based on family history, other risk factors or symptoms. Talk to your health care provider about your risk factors and when to get screened for colorectal cancer.

If you do not have health insurance or a health care provider, call the Cancer Services Program of Northeastern NY at 518-324-7671. We offer free colorectal cancer screening and follow-up services to New Yorkers who qualify.

Screenings save lives.

Colleen Jackson

Community outreach coordinator, Cancer

Services Program of Northeastern NY

Plattsburgh