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Mar 6, 2008 11:35 am US/Pacific
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Test For Life Colorectal Cancer Awareness Campaign
Colorectal Cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S., however it can be cured more than 90 percent of the time when detected early, and is often entirely preventable with appropriate screening. Screening finds precancerous polyps so they can be removed before they turn into cancer. That's why CBS13 and CW31 and Raley's and Bel Air Pharmacies are providing free home test kits. Getting tested is the first step to beating this disease.
From March 10 to April 6 go to select Raley's and Bel Air Pharmacies to pick up your free Test for Life.
For more information call 1-800-854-3002
For locations to pick up your free home test kit at Raley's and Bel Air Pharmacies, log on to www.raleys.com.
Frequently Asked Questions About Colorectal Cancer
Q: What is the purpose of colorectal cancer screening?
The purpose of the screening is to detect occult blood (blood not visible to the naked eye), which indicates bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. Such bleeding may be a symptom of colorectal cancer.
Q: Who should take this test?
The risk of developing colorectal cancer begins to increase after the age of 40 and rises sharply over the age of 50. All persons who do not have a family history of colorectal cancer, a previous history of colon cancer, or any other malignancy, and who have no symptoms, should take the test. All persons in high-risk categories for colorectal cancer should make an appointment with their physician for a colonoscopy.
These include:
- Those who have had colorectal cancer
- Women who have had breast cancer or reproductive tract cancer
- Those who have had benign intestinal polyps
- Those with a parent, sister or brother who have had colorectal cancer
Note: Person with ulcerative collitis and Crohn's disease are at an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer; however, different screening methods should be used.
Q: How does the screening program work?
The program is based on a simple, take-home test, called EZ DETECT, manufactured by BIOMERICA and distributed through Raley's and Bel Air Pharmacies.
Q: Is the test difficult or painful?
No. This test is user friendly and requires no stool collection. It includes simple directions for preparing your Test Results Card. In addition, a hotline is available from 8:00am to 5:00pm daily to answer your questions: 800-854-3002.
Q: Should I take test test even if I have no symptoms?
Yes. Most cancers and polyps do not cause pain or other symptoms at the onset but can be dectected at an early stage by minute quantities of blood in the stool.
Q: How will I know if my test is positive?
You are responsible for interpreting your test result. Any trace of blue-green color visible on any of the three tests indicates that blood may be present in your stool (a positive test result), meaing that there is a possible condition requiring your physician's attention. If you have a positive test result, you should make an appointment with our primary care physician for follow-up care. You should be seen within four to six weeks after the test. Your physician may want to run additional tests. Bring your completed Test Results Card to the appointment.
Q: If my test is positive, does it mean I have cancer?
A positive EZ DETECT test means that there may be bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. Benign conditions such as polyps, hemorrhoids or rectal fissures can cause bleeding that would cause a positive result. Most studies suggest that only 5 to 10 percent of those with a positive test will be diagnosed as having cancer. However, it is imperative that anyone with a positive test result see a physician as soon as possible to determine the cause of the bleeding.
Q: If my test is negative, does it mean I don't have cancer?
Not neccessarily. A negative test means that there was no blood detected at this time. Blood in the stool may occur intermittently or not at all.
Q: What are the chances of survival for someone with colorectal cancer?
If the cancer is found early and treated properly, more than 90 percent of patients survive five years or more. That's why taking this test is so important.
Q: When does the screening end?
EX DETECT kits will be available at Raley's and Bel Air Pharmacies from March 10 thru 28th, 2008.
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DISCLAIMER: The information provided here is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. Please check with a physician (such as a gastroenterologist) if you suspect you are ill. The information provided here is for educational purposes only. In no way should it be considered as offering medical advice. CBS Corporation, CBS 13 AND CW 31, Biomerica, Inc., and Raley's assume no responsibility for how this material is used.
(© MMVIII, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)