Schneck providing free coloCARE kits

While a colonoscopy is the best way to check for and prevent colon cancer, Schneck Medical Center is providing free coloCARE kits to test for hidden blood in the stool, a possible sign of colorectal cancer.

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Thanks to better prevention, early detection and treatment, the American Cancer Society estimates more than 1 million Americans have survived colon or rectal cancer, according to a news release from the Seymour hospital.

Free coloCARE kits are available at Schneck Primary Care in Seymour and Brownstown; Schneck Endoscopy Center at Schneck Medical Center in Seymour; and Schneck Family Care in North Vernon, Scottsburg and Salem.

Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, but 90 percent of colorectal cancer cases are curable if caught early. Thanks to colorectal cancer screening, polyps can be found and removed before they turn into cancer.

During March, Schneck is encouraging the community to get screened. If you are age 50 or over or have risk factors, including smoking, obesity, physical inactivity and heavy alcohol use, talk to your physician about a colonoscopy.

“You should get your first colonoscopy at the age of 50. Depending on your personal family medical history and risks, you may need to be screened even earlier,” said Kristin Hines, director of cancer and palliative care services at Schneck.

Hines said people should talk to their family doctor about how often they should be screened.