Let’s Fight Colorectal Cancer
in Sumter County
How Much Do You Know About Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer, cancer of the colon or rectum, is the third most common form of cancer and the third-ranked cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States (excluding some skin cancers). However, with regular screenings and a healthy lifestyle, it’s one of the most preventable cancers and beatable 60% of the time if discovered early enough. In fact, 9 of 10 people whose cancers are found early and treated appropriately live at least five years and beyond.
Black Panther actor Chadwick Boseman’s tragic death from colon cancer in 2020 put a renewed spotlight on the disease. His story is an important reminder to Georgians to be mindful of the actions we can take to help prevent colorectal cancer because many times, the disease has mild or no symptoms.
Sumter County’s Community Health Needs Assessment places fighting colorectal cancer as its top priority from 2020-2022. Here are some reasons why.
%
Increase in deaths each year among people younger than age 55
%
of colorectal cancers are associated with modifiable risk factors
cases per 100,000 people, higher than the average
%
of adults in Sumter County smoke tobacco
A Healthy Lifestyle Can Reduce Risk
Increase physical activity
Limit alcohol consumption
Avoid tobacco
Healthy, balanced diet
50 or Over? Get Screened!
What is a FIT test?
A FIT test is a non-invasive test that uses antibodies to detect blood in stool. It comes in an easy-to-use kit that you do at home and send back to a lab for results. The Americus Rotary Club has generously donated 125 FIT test kits for qualifying local residents of Southwest Georgia who ask their doctor about a screening. The available free FIT test kits are being distributed by Connect Care in Americus, Georgia.
To find out if you’re eligible, please call (229) 928-4755.