Regular colonoscopies could decrease the rates of colon cancer in men over the age of 50.
Baltimore County Executive Jim Smith and Health Officer Dr. Pierre Vigilance held a news conference yesterday at Franklin Square Hospital to educate people about colon cancer and promote free colonoscopies for those who are uninsured.
“We?re trying to get the word out about the free screening,” Smith said. “Maybe if people knew the benefits of the screening, they will be more willing to [be tested].”
“There?s somewhat of a stigma and a bit of a phobia for some people,” Vigilance said. “They perceive it to be a bit uncomfortable and maybe a bit embarrassing. We?ve got to get beyond that phobia.”
According to MedicineNet.com, colon cancer is caused by high fat intake, a family history of colorectal cancer and polyps, the presence of polyps in the large intestine and chronic ulcerative colitis. Symptoms may include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, abdominal pain, cramps or bloating. Surgery is the most common treatment for this type of cancer.
The National Cancer Institute estimated that in 2007, there will be 112,340 cases of colon cancer reported and 52,180 deaths from colon and rectal cancer combined.
“Early detection is the key to prevention,” Vigilance said. “For men over the age of 50, it is more prevalent, so they are the ones we are trying to target in getting these screenings done.”
Getting screened
For more information on colon cancer or to find out if you are eligible for a free colonoscopy, contact the Baltimore County Department of Health at 866-MD-COLON (632-6566) or visit the Web site at www.baltimorecoun tymd.gov/go/cancerprogram.
Staff Writer Karl B. Hille contributed to this article.
