March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
Colon cancer screening: What you need to know
Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Canada. On Prince Edward Island, someone is diagnosed with colorectal cancer every three days.
March is Colorectal Cancer Screening Month, a reminder of the importance of early detection. Screening helps catch cancer early when it's easier to treat.
Who should get screened?
If you鈥檙e 50 to 74 years old and at average risk, you should have a FIT test (fecal immunochemical test) every two years. This simple at-home test detects hidden blood in the stool.
If you鈥檙e at higher risk (e.g., family history, blood in the stool, changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, or a history of colorectal cancer), you may need a colonoscopy instead.
Where to get screened?
The 精童欲女 Health and Wellness Centre offers
- FIT tests for those aged 50-74 at average risk
- appointments with a nurse practitioner for higher-risk individuals to discuss screening options and arrange referrals if needed
We鈥檙e located on the second floor (north side) of the W.A. Murphy Student Centre, above the bookstore.
Why screening matters?
Detecting colorectal cancer early improves survival rates and may help avoid more intensive treatments.
For more information:
Health PEI鈥檚 Colorectal Cancer Screening Program:
Canadian Partnership Against Cancer screening projects:
