On the recordMarch 26, 2014
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Sadly, colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among both men and women in this country, including over 2,000 Ohioans, but it doesn't have to be. As the American College of Gastroenterology reminds us, colon cancer screenings can prevent cancer from occurring in the first place. In fact, evidence shows that colonoscopies could prevent over 50 percent of colorectal cancer deaths in the U.S. When colon cancer is detected early, the survival rate climbs to 90 percent. The American Cancer Society reveals that screenings have reduced the rate of colon cancer incidences by 30 percent over the last 10 years. Still, more needs to be done. Mr. Speaker, as we observe Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, I urge all Americans, particularly those over 50, to talk to their doctors and ask if screenings are right for them. Cancer is a killer, and colon cancer can be more deadly than most, but we can fight back by taking proactive steps to diagnose and combat the disease at its outset. ____________________
