Caregivers Can Save Lives

WASHINGTON, Nov. 3, 2014 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- November is National Family Caregivers Month, a time when we recognize and thank the loved ones who selflessly step up and help when we face illness, disease or disability. Caregivers take on a pivotal role in keeping us healthy by encouraging the right lifestyle choices and timely preventive care. This November, the Colon Cancer Alliance encourages caregivers to help prevent colon cancer by ensuring their loved ones get timely screening.

Colon cancer is unique in that it can be prevented through timely and appropriate screening. Over the past decade there has been a 30% reduction in new cases of colon cancer due almost entirely to an increase in the number of at-risk adults getting checked. Unfortunately, one-third of at-risk adults still have not been screened for colon cancer and it is estimated that more than 50,000 Americans will die from the disease this year, keeping it as the second leading cause of cancer deaths.

"It is a tragedy that nearly 140,000 people are diagnosed with colon cancer every year even though it is largely preventable," says Eric Hargis, Colon Cancer Alliance CEO. "We are asking caregivers to do whatever it takes - nag, plead, or beg - to get your loved ones screened. You may just save their life."

The Colon Cancer Alliance recommends that anyone over 50 years of age, 45 for African Americans, and those with a family history of colon cancer or symptoms talk to their doctor and get screened for colon cancer.

The Colon Cancer Alliance's mission is to knock colon cancer out of the top three cancer killers. This mission is being accomplished by championing prevention, funding cutting-edge research and providing the highest quality patient support services. Learn more at ccalliance.org.