June 8, 2018
New recommendations for colorectal cancer screening
Last week, the American Cancer Society released new recommendations for colorectal cancer screening that say everyone of average risk should begin regular screening at age 45 (previous recommendations said to begin at age 50). The Prevent Cancer Foundation® supports this change, as there has been a significant increase in colorectal cancer diagnoses in people under 50 in recent years.
Thanks to screening tools such as colonoscopies, the incidence of colorectal cancer has consistently declined over the past 30 years. However, it is on the rise in young people, who are more likely to detect colorectal cancer in later stages and may be unprepared to navigate a disease that was completely unexpected. Beginning regular screening at age 45 will help to prevent some of these cancers or detect them early, when successful treatment is more likely.
Those at increased risk for colorectal cancer may need to begin screening earlier or get screened more frequently. Risk factors include smoking, being overweight or obese, drinking alcohol in excess, eating a lot of red meat or processed meat, and having a personal or family history of colorectal cancer, colorectal polyps or inflammatory bowel disease (like ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease).
For more information on colorectal cancer risk factors, prevention and early detection, visit our colorectal cancer page.
Virginia becomes 33rd state to expand Medicaid program
Last week, the Virginia General Assembly passed a measure that will expand Medicaid coverage in Virginia beginning in January 2019. This move is projected to increase Medicaid coverage in the state of Virginia by 400,000 residents, and will increase the coverage threshold to individuals earning 138 percent of the poverty level. Governor Ralph Northam (D) has long been a strong supporter of Medicaid expansion.
Republicans and Democrats were able to strike a deal by including a work requirement provision. Under the Training, Education, Employment, and Opportunity Program, non-disabled residents who do not qualify for exemption will be required to be employed, attending school or participating in community engagement activities to be eligible for Medicaid enrollment. Individuals above the poverty level will be required to pay premiums of up to two percent of their income in order to enroll in the program.
See the status of Medicaid expansion in your state.
June is Men’s Health Month
June is celebrated as Men’s Health Month across the U.S. to help men take action to stay healthy. One in two men will be diagnosed with cancer in his lifetime, so it’s important to spread the word about ways to reduce your cancer risk.
Here are a few of the most common mistakes you might be making when it comes to your health:
- Skipping regular check-ups and screenings. Regular health check-ups and cancer screenings can help you prevent cancer or detect it early, when successful treatment is more likely. This month, make an appointment for a physical and talk to your health care professional about what screening options are right for you.
- Not making time for exercise. It’s easy to cut out exercise when your schedule is full with work and family obligations. Make exercising a priority and plan it into your weekly schedule. As summer approaches, take advantage of the sunshine and longer daylight. Get outside for fun, healthy activities like hiking, golfing or walking.
- Smoking. About 40 percent of men worldwide smoke, compared to only nine percent of women. Lung cancer is the most deadly form of cancer, and smoking is by far the leading cause. Smoking is also linked to several other types of cancer. If you smoke, it is crucial that you quit to help reduce your cancer risk. For help quitting, call 1-800-QuitNow to be connected with a trained quit coach in your area.
Register for the Prevent Cancer Health Fair & 5k Walk/Run
The Prevent Cancer Foundation® will host its 10th Annual Prevent Cancer Health Fair & 5k Walk/Run on Sunday, September 16 at Nationals Park. Kids under 12 and dogs are FREE, so join us for a day filled with fitness, food and fun while supporting lifesaving cancer prevention and early detection programs.
Walk or run the beautiful 5k course along the Capitol Riverfront and join us for a health fair at Nationals Park afterward. We will have free health screenings, food, games, giveaways and fun activities for all ages. You will also enjoy exclusive access to Nationals Park and get the chance to take a swing at the batting cages and check out the Washington Nationals dugouts.
Register today and start building your team and raising funds with friends and family members to Stop Cancer Before It Starts!®
Use code EARLYBIRD and register before Wednesday, August 15 to save $5 on your registration fee.
