The signs of colorectal cancer may not be obvious, and according to the American Cancer Society (ACS), many with early stages of the disease may not show any symptoms; symptoms typically appear only when the disease advances.  Because the ACS estimates around 49,000 people a year die from the disease, Nash Health Care is once again offering free colorectal cancer screenings for those 45 to 75 years old. When detected early, colorectal cancer is preventable, treatable and beatable.

FREE fecal occult blood test kits (kits that test for the presence of blood in stool) will be available for pick-up throughout March. Simply pick up a testing kit at one of the locations listed below and return it by April 15 in the pre-postage paid envelope provided. Kits will be analyzed at the Nash Health Care lab and results will be mailed to participants.

Test kits are available at the following times and locations:

§  Cancer Treatment Center – Nash Day Hospital
Kits available:
7:30 a.m to 4 p.m. Monday – Friday.

§  HealthFirst Wellness Center – Community Medical Plaza
1051 Noell Lane (enter through entrance on Target side of the building)
Kits available:
6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday – Thursday

6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday

8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday

            While symptoms of colorectal cancer may not always be obvious, you should see your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:

• A change in bowel habits that lasts for longer than a few days (this may include diarrhea or constipation)
• Cramping or belly pain
• Weakness and fatigue
• Unintended weight loss
• Rectal bleeding, dark stools or blood in the stool—although sometimes it is difficult to see small or microscopic traces of blood in the stool. Whether or not blood is in the stool is best determined by a fecal occult stool screening kit.

For information, call the HealthFirst Wellness Center at 962-3466 or the Nash Cancer Treatment Center - 962-8947.