Image courtesy of the Salina Regional Health Center/Tammy Walker Cancer Center

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in men and women, but when detected early, it is often highly treatable.

In recognition of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in March, the Tammy Walker Cancer Center is offering 800 free colorectal cancer screening kits for adults ages 45 to 75. The kits are recommended for those who have not had a recent colonoscopy and are available while supplies last at participating pharmacies in Salina, Abilene, Concordia, Minneapolis and Lindsborg.

Participants are asked to return completed kits for analysis by May 30.

Health experts recommend that men and women begin colonoscopy screenings at age 45. Between colonoscopies, patients may use a fecal blood test for screening. Those with a family history of colorectal cancer or African Americans, who face a higher risk, may need to begin screening earlier.

Kits are also available at the Saline County Health Department. Funding support for the initiative comes from the Salina Charities League and the Salina Regional Health Foundation.

For more information about the free colorectal cancer screening kits, contact Daniel Craig at (785) 452-4848 or by email at dacraig@srhc.com. Screening kits can also be mailed to participants upon request by contacting Craig directly.