Colon cancer, or colorectal cancer, is the third leading cause of cancer-related death in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Fortunately, screenings can detect growths before they turn into cancer. This is helping to save lives. It is important to spread awareness, get screened, and encourage loved ones to get screened to help prevent colon cancer.
Teenagers and younger adults may develop colon cancer, but it mostly occurs in people older than 50. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that adults aged 50 to 75 have regular colon cancer screenings. The timeline for regular screenings will depend on what screening test you choose.
“There is no one ‘best test’ for everyone,” says Bronwyn Dilley, Family Practice Nurse Practitioner at Family Health La Clinica. “Each has its pros and cons and may depend on your personal preferences, medical conditions, and more.” Colonoscopies are recommended only once every ten years but are more invasive than other tests. There are also stool-based tests that provide more personal comfort but are needed more often.
Family Health La Clinica (FHLC) offers immunochemical Fecal Occult Blood (iFOB) testing and Cologuard DNA testing options. These are needed every year to three years and can be done in the privacy of your own home. If you decide that a colonoscopy is a better option for you, FHLC can set up a referral at the location of your choice. If you would like to schedule a visit at their clinic located at 400 South Townline Road in Wautoma, call toll-free at 1-800-942-5330. They can talk about your options and help to get you on a regular screening schedule.
Family Health La Clinica is a community health center that offers primary medical, dental, mental health, and substance abuse services to people of all ages and income levels, both insured and uninsured. They accept private insurance, Medicaid (BadgerCare) and Medicare, and have a sliding fee discount program for those who qualify. For more information, visit their website at www.famhealth.com or find them on social media @fhlcchc on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram.
