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The American Cancer Society designates March as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. In observance, Texas County Memorial Hospital (TCMH) is offering free colorectal cancer screening kits to area residents.
Individuals may contact TCMH to request a free colon cancer screening kit through Friday, March 27. The screening includes a fecal occult blood test (FOBT) for individuals 45 and older, or for younger individuals who have risk factors for colorectal cancer. The test kit, along with educational information about colorectal cancer, will be mailed directly to participants. Easy-to-follow instructions are included.
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in both Missouri and the United States. One in 24 people will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer during their lifetime.
However, the American College of Gastroenterologists notes that colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers when detected early. Screening, including the fecal occult blood test, plays a vital role in early detection.
The American Cancer Society recommends the following screening guidelines for individuals at average risk beginning at age 45: yearly fecal occult blood test; flexible sigmoidoscopy every five years; double contrast barium enema every five years; and colonoscopy every ten years. Individuals with a family or personal history of colorectal cancer, polyps, or inflammatory bowel disease may need to begin screening at an earlier age, as directed by their physician.
Symptoms of colorectal cancer may include a change in bowel habits such as diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool that lasts for more than a few days; a feeling of needing to have a bowel movement that is not relieved by doing so; rectal bleeding or blood in the stool; abdominal cramping or pain or weakness or fatigue.
Because these symptoms may also be caused by other health conditions, only a physician can determine their cause. Individuals experiencing symptoms are encouraged to discuss them with their healthcare provider as soon as possible.
To request a free screening kit or obtain more information, contact Jason Mayberry, Education Director at TCMH, by calling 1-866-967-3311 or (417) 967-1340, or by emailing [email protected]. Please include your name, address, and phone number when requesting a kit.
Supplies are limited, so act quickly—your health matters, and early detection saves lives! All kits must be returned to TCMH for processing by April 10, 2026.