The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) today launched a new educational program to reduce the number of Arizonans who develop colorectal cancer. The Department is urging all Arizonans, age 50 and older, to visit www.getscreenedaz.com to promote early detection of colorectal cancer and to save lives of Arizonans.

"Colorectal cancer is the second deadliest form of cancer but it is preventable," said Susan Gerard, state Health Department Director. "Only 25 percent of colorectal cancer in Arizona is detected in its earliest, highly curable, stage. That's why we’re promoting screening and education."

The goal of the colorectal cancer awareness program is to increase awareness about the effects colorectal cancer can have on a person’s life. The web site, www.getscreenedaz.com, provides educational information and allows visitors to learn more about colorectal cancer and the steps they can take to get a screening by their doctor.

"It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3," said Kendra Sabol, program director for the Arizona Cancer Control Program. "We are urging all Arizonans 50 years and older to 1) call their doctor; 2) make the appointment; and 3) get the screening. It may save their life."

Each year, 2,400 Arizonans will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer, which occurs in the colon or rectum, and is also known as colon cancer. It affects both men and women almost equally, occurs in all racial and ethnic groups, and is most often found in people ages 50 and older. According to the CDC, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer affecting men, after prostate and lung cancers. For women, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer after breast and lung cancers.

"With 900 deaths per year, colorectal cancer is the second leading cancer killer in Arizona, but it doesn't have to be," added Sabol. "If adults 50 and older had regular screening tests, almost 60% of deaths from colorectal cancer could be prevented. It is a simple test that is easily done by a doctor and causes little, if any, discomfort. Knowing that you are healthy far outweighs the minor discomfort of the screening."

Colorectal cancer has no symptoms or warning signs and that is why ADHS is urging Arizonans age 50 and older to call their health care provider, make an appointment and get screened. Early detection and removal of polyps in the colon actually prevents development of many colorectal cancers.
To learn more about regular screenings for colorectal cancer visit the website at www.getscreenedaz.com or call your doctor.