March- Colorectal Cancer Screening Month

Employer E-mail:

Greetings!

Did you know colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer death for men and women? It accounts for over 50,000 deaths every year in the United States. However, with regular screening most colon cancer deaths could be prevented. March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness month. Colon cancer screening should begin at age 50 and repeated every 10 years. If an employee has a family history of colon cancer or at high risk encourage them to get screened sooner.

  • Communicate the benefits about colorectal cancer screening using the CDC’s Screen for Life brochures and fact sheets:
  • Take action! Encourage employees to talk to their healthcare provider about the different screening options.
  • All health plans on the Washington exchange must cover preventive services, such a colorectal cancer screening. Visit to learn more.
  • If more than 25% of your workforce is uninsured, refer employees to the Washington State Breast, Cervical, and Colon Health Program (BCCHP), which provides free cancer screenings to eligible residents of Washington State. Visit or call 1-888-438-2247 to determine eligibility.
  • For older employees, Medicare Part B covers several types of colorectal cancer screenings.
  • The Washington Apple Health Plan (Medicaid) also covers preventive cancer screenings.

Health Savvy Tips for Employees:

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States and a leading cause of death from cancer. The best way to prevent colorectal cancer is to get screened regularly starting at age 50. Individuals with a family history or at high risk of colorectal cancer should talk to their doctor about getting screened sooner. There are often no signs or symptoms of colorectal cancer – that’s why it’s so important to get screened.

  • All health plans on the Washington Stateinsurance exchange must cover preventive services, such a colorectal cancer screening. Visit to learn more.
  • The Washington State Breast, Cervical, and Colon Health Program (BCCHP) provide free cancer screenings to eligible residents of Washington State. Visit or call 1-888-438-2247 to determine your eligibility.
  • Lower your risk of colorectal cancer by maintaining healthy habits.
  • Smoking cigarettes increases your risk for cancer. Quit smoking and stay away from second-hand smoke. Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW to access for resources to help you kick the habit.
  • Walk 10,000 steps or more per day- take the bus to work, use the stairs instead of the elevator, or take a walking lunch break.
  • Eat at least five servings of fruit and vegetables per day- include at least one fruit or vegetable at every meal.