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Southern 7 Health Department: Colon cancer screening is key

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men and third in women in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that people at average risk of colorectal cancer start regular screening at age 45.

On Sept. 18, the Southern Seven Health Department and its partners, Hope Light Foundation and University of Chicago Medicine Center for Asian Health Equity, along with Golden Circle Senior Center in Golconda, will host the community event "Strollin' through the Colon," with colorectal cancer screening fecal immunochemical test kits, cancer education and giveaways.

"Strollin' through the Colon" will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Golden Circle Senior Center, 217 Adams St. in Golconda.

"The Southern Seven Health Department is delighted to work with the University of Chicago and Hope Light Foundation again this year to raise awareness of CRC, a very deadly disease," said Rhonda Andrews Ray, S7HD Executive Director/Public Health Administrator.

This event will discuss why it is important to get regular colorectal screenings in a lighthearted way that allows those who attend to walk through a 20-foot, inflatable colon. Afterward, visitors can talk with medical professionals on the importance of early detection of colon cancer and treatment. Free at-home test kits will be available for those 45 and over.

"If we find colon cancer early, nine out of 10 people will have a long-term survival and can be cured from the disease," said Dr. Karen Kim, MD, MS, director of the center and principal investor in Illinois Colon CARES.

"Unfortunately, about 40% of people diagnosed with colon cancer are found in late stages when the survival rate is very low. This is a disease that needs special attention because we can prevent it with screening," said Rudy Bess, Founding Director of the Hope Light Foundation.

Visitors are encouraged to wear a mask and follow social distancing guidelines. Call Southern Seven Health Department at (618) 634-2297 ext. 9161 or visit Facebook.