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March is Colorectal Cancer Screening Month

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March is colorectal cancer awareness month and the UPEI Health & Wellness Centre is encouraging all faculty & staff to educate themselves about the benefits of early screening for colorectal cancer. 

Colorectal cancer does not always display obvious symptoms, especially in early stages, but free testing is available to help identify when the illness may be developing.

Screening using the FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test) Kit is recommended every two years for those of average risk who are 50 to 74 years of age.  Average risk means no family history of colorectal cancer (parent or sibling) or no symptoms such as a change in bowel movements, visible blood in the stool, or excessive vomiting. The test screens stool for signs of blood which can indicate the presence of polyps or cancer cells.

Testing is simple, can be done in the comfort of your home and takes only a few minutes. Anyone can do this test to detect warning signs of cancer and take action while you are still feeling healthy. It’s convenient, free and improves your chances of survival.  Pick up a FIT kit at the UPEI Health & Wellness Centre, 2nd Floor North, Murphy Building.