Early detection improves odds against cancer diagnosis
COVID-19 and coronavirus receive much of our attention these days but the other ‘Big C’ ravages humanity.
In 2020, cancer, in various forms, will cause a projected 606,000 deaths in the U.S. while an estimated 1,806,000 residents face a cancer diagnosis.
Cancer delivers pain and suffering across socioeconomic classes. While most people have no connection with lavish lifestyles of professional athletes or Hollywood movie stars, we can identify with their struggles.
In fact, celebrity issues and honesty about problems with drug addiction, alcoholism, eating disorders and depression can influence public understanding and help those facing similar concerns.
Case in point, the recent death of Chadwick Boseman, 43, who starred as King T’Challa in the blockbuster film Black Panther and more recently 21 Bridges, a police thriller set in New York City, should spark awareness about colorectal cancer.
Boseman had battled colon cancer since 2016 and died at home with his family and wife by his side, according to a statement posted on his Twitter account.
“A true fighter, Chadwick persevered through it all, and brought you so many of the films you have come to love so much,” the statement said.
“From Marshall to Da 5 Bloods, August Wilson’s Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom and several more, all were filmed during and between countless surgeries and chemotherapy.”
Boseman also starred in “42” as he recreated the groundbreaking life of Major League Baseball legend Jackie Robinson.
Cancer of the colon or rectum ranks as the third-leading cause of cancer death in the United States for both men and women as more than 50,000 deaths occur annually.
Amazingly, 90-percent of all colorectal cancer cases and deaths are preventable by removing polyps.
When detected early, many colorectal cancers can be successfully treated which makes screening for prevention and early detection important actions.
According to the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy,
• The rate of being diagnosed with colorectal cancer is higher among African-Americans than among any other population group in the United States.
• Death rates from colorectal cancer are higher among AfricanAmericans than any other population group in the United States.
• Experts suggest that AfricanAmericans get screened beginning at age 45 while other ethnic groups should test by age 50.
• Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer among African-Americans.
• African-Americans are less likely than Caucasians to have colorectal polyps detected at a time when they can easily be removed.
• African-Americans are more likely to be diagnosed with colorectal cancer in advanced stages when there are fewer treatment options available. They are less likely to live five or more years after being diagnosed with colorectal cancer than other populations.
While March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, this disease requires regular inspection as — let’s establish this again — early detection matters.
Henry J. Austin Health Center offers information and support for colorectal cancer issues. Call (609) 278-5900 to schedule a screening with the HJAHC team.
Visit henryjaustin.org to learn about numerous health initiatives provided by the Trenton-based organization.