June is Men’s Health Month. Men, did you know that you can prevent colon cancer? Colorectal cancer screening finds polyps that can be removed before they turn into cancer. Screening can also find cancer early when treatment may work best. Men are less likely to get screened for colorectal cancer. New York State data shows that about 69% of men ages 50-75 are up to date with screening, while 74% of women ages 50-74 are up to date. Men get colorectal cancer more often than women. They are also more likely to be diagnosed at a later stage of the disease. The Cancer Services Program (CSP) of Northeastern NY hopes men will use this information to take a positive step towards preventing colorectal cancer. The CSP encourages men to talk to their health care provider about screening. Last year the national recommendation, for screening for people at average risk for colorectal cancer, was changed to start at age 45 instead of 50. People younger than 45 should talk to their health care provider about their risk for colorectal cancer and when to start screening. If you have no health insurance, the CSP may be able to help. The CSP provides free colorectal cancer screening to people age 45 and older living in Clinton, Essex, and Franklin counties who qualify. Please contact the CSP at 518-324-7671 if you would like more information or to see if you are eligible. Nicole Fenton Data/Case Manager Cancer Services Program of Northeastern NY *CSP is supported with funds from the State of New York Time