Statistics say colon cancer is the third-most common cancer found in both men and women, and it is the second-leading cancer killer in the United States. But fortunately about 90 percent of people who find colon cancer in the earliest stages can be successfully treated.

In recognition of national Colon Cancer Awareness Month in March, the Tammy Walker Cancer Center, Salina Regional Health Center and Salina Charities League are making free colon cancer screening kits available to anyone ages 50 to 75 on a first-come, first-served basis. The kits can be picked up at participating Salina or Lindsborg pharmacies, the Salina Family Healthcare Center and Tammy Walker Cancer Center while supplies last.

The fecal occult blood tests require only one sample and have no food or drug restrictions. The samples can then be mailed to Salina Regional Health Center for lab analysis via a pre-paid postage envelope provided. Results of the test will be mailed to both the patient and their primary care physician. Participants in the screening should return their samples for analysis by May 15.

All men and women should have a colonoscopy after age 50 to screen for colon cancer. Between colonoscopies patients should screen with a fecal occult blood test. Other tests may also
be recommended by your physician. Those with family history of the disease should consider annual screening sooner.

For more information about the free colon cancer screening kits contact Linda Hinnenkamp, cancer outreach nurse at the Tammy Walker Cancer Center, by calling 785-452-4848.