Early detection is a life-saver

Early detection is a life-saver

I am living proof that if cancer is detected early and treated you can survive. March is colorectal cancer awareness month. In most cases screenings can detect if there are polyps or abnormal signs that could be signs of colorectal cancer. Early detection is the key.

Most do not realize it, but colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer related deaths in the United States. Most colorectal cancer occurs in men and women age 50 and older.

But screenings can save your life. If there are polyps or cancer present, the key is to find it early, and to have it treated. The majority of people live for many years after their diagnosis if it is found early enough.

The big obstacle, however, is that people do not get screened.

Often there are no symptoms or early signs of this cancer. That’s why it is crucial for people to get screened.

Testing does save lives. The success rate for treating and curing colorectal cancer is about 90 percent of the patients who are diagnosed at an early stage. They live at least five years and many live much longer.

There are a number of screening options available. Please talk to your doctor about getting tested and which test is right for you.

Bill Buckler, Poland

The writer is a cancer survivor and member of Tri-County Community Cancer Partners, a facilitator for the ACS Man-to-Man Support Group and survivor committee chairperson for the Poland Relay for Life.