Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month Recognized by KCH

Knox Community Hospital is proud to participate in Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in March.

Colorectal cancer, found in the inner lining of the large intestine, is the third most common cancer in men and women in the United States, excluding skin cancers. Most colorectal cancers produce no symptoms and can take up to 10 years to develop. While cancer can grow unnoticed for years, early screenings can identify cancers earlier and result in colon and rectum cancer prevention. According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer rates have consistently dropped over the last 40 years as people participate in early screening and change lifestyle habits.

Now is the time to start preventing colorectal cancer. Here are some steps you can take:

  • Begin screening at age 45 with a screening colonoscopy every ten years
  • Know your family history- colorectal cancer risk is three to six times higher with a family history of colorectal cancer.
  • African Americans and those of Eastern European descent (Ashkenazi) are at higher risk for colorectal cancer than other racial or ethnic groups.

Talk to a doctor about your risk for colorectal cancer, especially if a close family member has had colon or rectal cancer. At KCH, the month-long observance of colorectal cancer awareness includes:

  • A free colorectal cancer screening kit is available from March 7 to April 1 at the main KCH entrance between 8 am and 4:30 pm. The last date to submit kits for testing is April 15. You can learn more by calling 740.393.9621.
  • During March, we are also lighting Rastin Tower and the downtown bridges in cyan blue in honor of patients, families, and caregivers.
COLONOSCOPY INFORMATION