Kentucky Colon Cancer Screening Program
Janet C. Luttrell
275 E. Main St.
Frankfort, KY 40621
(502) 564-7996
The Kentucky Colon Cancer Screening Program (KCCSP) is a population-based, public health initiative consisting of a network of state, regional and local health professionals whose mission is to reduce new cases of colon cancer as well as the disability and death associated with colon cancer.
Western Kentucky Colon Cancer Partnership Forum
December 1, 2011
10 a.m. - 2 p.m. CST
James E. Bruce Convention Center
303 Conference Center Drive
Hopkinsville, KY
Click Here to Register
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Colon Cancer: General Information |
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Is Colon Cancer Preventable?
Did you know that you can stop this cancer before it starts?
- Colon cancers almost always develop from precancerous polyps (abnormal growths) in the colon or rectum.
- Screening tests find polyps, so they can be removed before they change into cancer.
- Screening tests find colon cancer early, when treatment works best and the chance for a full recovery is very high.
- The most effective way to reduce your risk of colon cancer is by having colon cancer screening tests beginning at age 50.
Take the Quiz
Screening Fact Sheet for Patients
Screening Fact Sheet for Professionals
Polyps
Polyps are growths on the inner wall of the colon or rectum. They are common in people older than 50. Most polyps are benign (not cancerous), but some polyps (adenomas) can become cancer. Finding and removing polyps may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.
Picture of Polyps
Risk Factors
Are you at high risk of developing colorectal cancer? The risk of developing colorectal cancer increases with age. Screening tests for colorectal cancer should begin soon after turning 50 and continue at regular intervals or at the recommendation of your health care provider. However, you may need to be tested earlier or more often if your risk factors include the following:
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Certain hereditary syndromes
- A personal history or family history of colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer
Symptoms
Colorectal cancer first develops with very few, if any, symptoms over a period of years. This is why screening is important. However, symptoms may include:
- Blood in the bowel movement
- A change in bowel habits
- Stools that are narrower than usual
- General, unexplained stomach discomfort
- Frequent gas, pain or indigestion
- Unexplained weight loss
- Chronic fatigue
These symptoms also can be associated with other health conditions. Discuss any of these symptoms with your doctor. Only your doctor can determine why you have these symptoms.
Healthy Choices and Lifestyle Factors
Recent studies indicate that certain lifestyle choices may increase your risk of colon cancer. Although screening is the best way to decrease your risk of colon cancer, you also can improve your overall health and decrease your risk if you:
- Eat nine servings of fruits and vegetables each day
- Maintain a normal weight
- Limit fat in your diet
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Avoid tobacco, including smokeless products
- Get regular physical exercise
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Kentucky Colon Cancer Screening Program |
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The KCCSP was formed by passage of HB 415 in 2008 to increase awareness of and education about screening for colorectal cancer. With future funding, screening programs will be developed for eligible Kentucky residents.
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Kentucky Colon Cancer Advisory Committee |
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Members represent key organizations and people affected by colon cancer in Kentucky. The function of the advisory committee is to provide oversight to the Kentucky Colon Cancer Screening Program and report annually to the Kentucky legislature.
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Kentucky Colon Cancer Prevention Committee/Dialogue for Action |
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The working group for the Kentucky Colon Cancer Screening Program was formed under the umbrella of the Kentucky Cancer Consortium, a statewide partnership of diverse organizations united to reduce the burden of cancer in Kentucky.
In 2008, Kentucky became a Dialogue for Action state through the Prevent Cancer Foundation, engaging more than100 individuals in efforts to reduce the incidence and mortality of colon cancer in Kentucky by pooling information, ideas, skills and strategies. This group meets monthly in Frankfort and welcomes new members to serve on its Provider/Medical Home, Awareness/Messaging and Grassroots groups. Please contact Janet Luttrell for more information.
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Cultural Competency |
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America is becoming much more culturally diverse. Physicians and other health care providers who learn about cultural differences can communicate more effectively with people from different cultural backgrounds and better convey to these populations the value of cancer screening tests in preventing colorectal cancer.
As a starting point, the free online training tool A Family Physician's Practical Guide to Culturally Competent Care is recommended. Physicians who complete the modules are eligible to receive two COPIC ERS points and up to nine CME credits.
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