Get screened for free: Colon Cancer Awareness Month offers life-saving tests

In recognition of Colon Cancer Awareness Month, CentraCare is offering free colon cancer screening kits to help detect and prevent one of the most common and preventable cancers.

Colon and rectal cancer are a leading cause of cancer death for men and women despite being one of the most preventable forms of cancer if treated early. Regular colonoscopy screening should start at age 45 or sooner with a family history of cancer or other risk factors. Approximately 70% of people with colorectal cancer have no family history.

Key Points:

• Who: Individuals aged 45 or older

• What: Free iFOBT Take-Home Colon Screening kits

• When: March 1-31

• Where: Various CentraCare locations (list provided below)

• Why: Early detection can save lives

During Colon Cancer Awareness Month, people who are age 45 or older can receive a free immunochemical fecal occult blood test (iFOBT) Take-Home Colon Screening kit at the following locations:

• Baxter Clinic Registration Desk

• Becker Clinic Registration Desk

• Benson Hospital Registration Desk

• Big Lake Clinic Registration Desk

• Clearwater Clinic Registration Desk

• Coborn Healing Center, in CentraCare Plaza, St. Cloud

• Eden Valley Clinic Laboratory

• Family Health Center

• Long Prairie Clinic Information Desk

• Melrose Clinic Registration Desk

• Monticello Specialty Clinic (2nd Floor)

• Paynesville Laboratory

• Redwood Registration Desk

• Richmond Clinic Laboratory

• Sauk Centre Hospital Registration Desk

• St. Cloud Hospital Pharmacy Drive-up Window

• Willmar Cancer Center

Kits will be available March 1-31. The number of kits available is limited, and you must be present to pick up your kit. The iFOBT screening does not replace a colonoscopy, which is the best method to detect colorectal cancer. To schedule a colonoscopy, please contact your doctor.

To receive your free kit, print and complete the consent form, then drop it off at any participating location listed above. For more information, visit CentraCare.com/coloncancerkit.

Don’t wait – take the first step towards preventing colon cancer today.