Colorectal cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer death in Louisiana, according to the Louisiana Tumor Registry produced by LSU Health New Orleans School of Public Health. Almost nine in 10 people diagnosed with colorectal cancer at a localized stage will survive at least 5 years, a statistic that illustrates the importance of regular screenings.

"Colorectal cancer is one of the few cancers that we can prevent.  Screening allows us to find polyps (small growths) in the colon and remove them before they become cancer. Don't let a little embarrassment keep you from screening.  Do it for yourself.  Do it for your family.  Talk with your doctor.  It can save your life," urged Donna Williams, MS, MPH, DrPH, LCRC Associate Director of Population Sciences and Community Outreach and Engagement and professor of behavioral health at LSU Health New Orleans. In the video above, Dr. Williams describes Louisianans who fall in the high risk group and offers a message of hope.

Studies revealed steep increases in the incidence of colorectal cancers in younger populations, aged 49 to 50 years of age. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force now recommends that adults age 45 to 75 be screened for colorectal cancer.  Adults age 76 to 85 and those with a family history of cancer should talk to their doctor about screening.

According to the Louisiana Cancer Prevention & Control Programs, the colorectal cancer survivor rate is 90%, if caught early. Colorectal cancer screening options include stool tests, flexible sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, and CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy).

To learn more about screening locations, or to begin the screening process, call the Louisiana Cancer Prevention & Control Program toll free hotline at 1-888-599-1073 or visit their website at www.lbchp.org.

Below is information on scheduling a screening test at LCRC member institutions:

LSU Health’s Department of Surgery can help identify colorectal issues via one of its clinical partners

Ochsner Health

Tulane

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