MOUNT VERNON — Colorectal cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. It typically occurs in people around age 50, but the disease is starting to affect younger people every day. It may even develop without any symptoms, which is why getting screened and early detection is vital.

This disease is located in the colon or rectum, which are parts of the digestive system. It occurs when normal cells divide and multiplies uncontrollably leading to damage to the DNA and causing a rise in tumors. Both men and women can be affected by colon cancer. 

“There is increasing evidence that screening exams can aid in the early detection of colorectal cancer," Bobbi Mickley, patient navigator with the KCH Center for Cancer Care, said. "Early screening and detection can lead to better patient outcomes. Being vigilant about your health and working with your primary care physician to understand and follow the American Cancer Society’s screening guidelines depends on you.”

Estimates for 2022 share that 150,000 Americans will be diagnosed and over 50,000 will die from colorectal cancer. These numbers are consistently going up every year. Thankfully, this type of cancer is one of the most preventable. Getting screened and at-home, stool-based tests will help detect cancer. Anyone who receives an abnormal result from the stool-based test or has a family history of colorectal cancer is recommended to have a colonoscopy.

Here at Knox Community Hospital, our staff in the Knox Medical Pavilion are helping patients every day seek a variety of treatments, including colorectal cancer. We are devoted to helping those in our community seek a healthy lifestyle because their health and safety are our priority. 

Starting April 3 through April 28, KCH will be offering free colorectal cancer screening kits. These will be available at the front entrance of the main hospital and the entrance to the Center for Cancer Care in the Knox Medical Pavilion on the ground floor. Kits will need to be returned to the KCH (main building, 1330 Coshocton Ave.) LAB by May 12. Fasting is not required.