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 Dorothy Wu
Colon cancer (CRC, colorectal cancer) is the 2nd leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. However, when diagnosed early, it is actually one of the most treatable forms of cancer.
On October 13, 2003, my friend Emily lost her mother to this cancer. Janet Long Grace was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2001. We never suspected that this was something she would experience, nor did we have any idea that it would take her life. The objective of this service learning project for Health 1050 was to raise awareness of colon cancer, and to encourage screening for early detection.
Working with Jennifer Schreyer, who lost her Godmother, Kathy Winkles, to colon cancer as well, we set up a booth outside of Menden to hand out dark blue colon cancer ribbons and information on early screening and detection. Included in our presentation were risk factors and possible symptoms.
Although colon cancer is more prevalent in middle-aged adults, almost everyone we spoke to knew of at least one person who was at or near this age. With the holiday break coming up, we hoped they would take this information home to their families and friends. We also were able to speak to a number of faculty members and other adults who are nearing the age of starting screening. Hopefully, our information sheets will encourage them to start getting colonoscopies.
Many were surprised that colon cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths. (It is second to lung cancer). With the updated medical technologies of this age, as well as raised awareness of early detection, it is very possible that we can help prevent colon cancer, and/or help with early diagnosis for a better chance at recovery and survival.
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