According to the CDC, when cells in the body grow out of control, this leads to cancer. If cancer starts in the colon or rectum, it’s called colorectal cancer (colon cancer). Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in the United States.
Your risk of getting colon cancer increases as you get older. Colorectal cancer doesn’t always cause symptoms, which is why screening is so important. It’s recommended that adults 45 to 75 should be screened for colon cancer, and there are several ways to do this. Colonoscopies are the best option, but sometimes people are hesitant or cannot afford this option.
Another way to screen for colon cancer screening is through a fecal immunochemical test or FIT test. This test can be done at home. It uses antibodies to detect blood in the stool. Cheyenne Laramie County Public Health offers FIT kits to the public at no cost to them. To be eligible you must be between 45 and 75 years old and haven’t had a colonoscopy in the last 10 years. People of all incomes and all insurance types are eligible, including those who do not have insurance.
“We’re working hard to make colorectal cancer screening accessible. Our no-cost FIT kits are a great first step, but remember, a colonoscopy remains the gold standard. If you have concerns or risk factors, please talk to your primary care provider. Early detection saves lives, and we’re here to help.” said Adult Services Manager John Goetz, RN.
The process is simple. You speak with a Cheyenne Laramie County Public Health nurse to see if you are eligible, fill out some paperwork and pick up your test kit. You collect a sample at home, return the sample for testing, and our nurses will call with your results. The tests need to be done every year.
Members of the public can call and speak to a CLCPH Adult Services nurse to learn more at 307.633.4000.